INDIA TAKE CONTROL AGAINST SRI LANKA AS COLOMBO TEST INTENSIFIES
COLOMBO | AUGUST 25, 2026 — NGTV NEWS SPORTS DESK
India strengthened its position against Sri Lanka in the second Test in Colombo on Tuesday, with the hosts struggling at 265 for eight at the close of Day 3.
India had declared its first innings at a commanding 503 for nine, putting Sri Lanka under significant pressure. The Indian bowling attack then produced a disciplined performance, with Prasidh Krishna taking three wickets and Manav Suthar also claiming three.
Sri Lanka found some resistance through Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who marked his maiden Test half-century with a determined 80 from 133 deliveries. His innings, supported by Kamindu Mendis, gave the hosts a brief period of stability before India regained control.
Rain eventually interrupted play and forced an early finish, leaving Sri Lanka 238 runs behind India with only two wickets remaining in the first innings. The visitors will now look to complete the job quickly on the fourth morning and put themselves in a strong position to push for a series sweep.
The Colombo Test carries added significance for both sides. India entered the match after a convincing 165-run victory in the opening Test at Galle, while Sri Lanka are fighting to stay competitive in the series on home soil.
India’s bowling unit has so far maintained pressure through a combination of pace and spin, restricting Sri Lanka’s scoring opportunities and keeping the required run rate under control.
For Sri Lanka, the priority on Day 4 will be to extend the innings and reduce India’s advantage. For the visitors, the equation is simpler: take the remaining wickets, build on their first-innings lead and move closer to another Test victory.
With the match entering its decisive phase, the fourth day could prove crucial in determining whether India completes a series triumph or Sri Lanka manages to fight its way back into contention.
NGTV NEWS — SPORTS DESK
Reporting from Colombo
