Dhruv Jurel’s second century has put India in a commanding position in the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Jurel remained unbeaten on 115 as India declared on 503/9 on a rain-interrupted day. In reply, Sri Lanka have lost two quick wickets, including nightwatchman Prabath Jayasuriya off the last ball of the day.

Jurel adds to Sri Lanka’s misery

Sri Lanka will resume Day 3 on 8/2, trailing India by 495 runs. India resumed Day 2 on 300/5, riding on yet another century from Devdutt Padikkal (117). Rishabh Pant (63) walked in to bat after retiring hurt on Day 1 and put on 112 with Jurel, setting India up for a big total. The tail hung in there with Jurel, as India added 39, 31 and 14* for the last three wickets. Jurel reached his century after playing 13 dot balls on 99, and nearly running himself out while completing the run for his century.

Asitha Fernando was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka, finishing with 4/106. Spinners Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha picked up two wickets apiece, while fast bowler Lahiru Kumara picked up one.

India strike early

For India, Prasidh Krishna struck early, dismissing Lahiru Udara for one, while Manav Suthar picked up the other wicket to put their team on top.

India lead the two-match series 1-0, following their emphatic 165-run win in the first Test in Galle. A win here will keep India very much in the hunt for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Brief scores:

India 503/9 decl (Devdutt Padikkal 117, Dhruv Jurel 115*; Asitha Fernando 4/106) lead Sri Lanka 8/2 (Kami mishara 5*; Prasidh Prishna 1/1) by 495 runs

For more news & updates, follow The Crichub on Instagram, X and YouTube