The Day three of the first Test between Indian and SriLanka at Galle, has turned 0ut into an interesting Day 4 finisher. At a stage where SriLanka was expected to be defeated by an innings and a margin of runs, the duo of Thirimanne and Chandimal have put up all the efforts to raise the Lankan score from 95/5 to 367/7.
At a stage where SriLanka have lost their top order with Kumara Sangakkara (40) and Angelo Mathews (39) removed by Ashwin in quick succession, the SriLankan second innings looked weak and an innings defeat for SriLanka was on cards. However, Thirimanne (44) and Wicket-Keeper Chandimal (162) have reversed the case with an extraordinary batting performance after lunch on Day 3.
Chandimal arriving at a crucial part of the innings, made sure that no other wicket falls. He was joined by Thirimanne who also played carefully being positive in shot selection. Chandimal, after getting used to the conditions has taken over the attack to the opposition. The wicket-keeper batsmen displayed a fine batting with an unbeaten 162 of just 169 balls. The contributions of the duo took SriLanka to a score of 367, leading India by 175 runs. which also meant that India needs 176 runs to win the first Test at Galle.
In the Indian bowling Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin once again lead the attack with figures of 4/114, followed by Mishra who scalped three wickets giving away 61 runs at an impressive economy rate of 3.6, when compared to other Indian bowlers.
In their chase in return, India have posted 23/1 at stumps. The only wicket fell was that of KL Rahul (5) taken by Herath. India now needs 153 more runs to win the first Test, which is also the farewell test for SriLankan wicket-keeper batsman Kumara Sangakkara, the Cricbuzz reports.
On the other hand, Ajinkya Rahane has created a new record in fielding by taking eight-catches, most by any fielder in a test match. The previous best was ‘Seven Catches’, which was held by 5 cricketers.