India dominate Colombo Test; stunning century for Dhruv Jurel

COLOMBO: India ended the second day of the second Test against Sri Lanka in a strong position after declaring their first innings at 503/9. Sri Lanka, in reply, lost two wickets for just eight runs before stumps. Lahiru Kumara (1) was dismissed by Mohammed Siraj, while Manav Suthar removed Prabath Jayasuriya (2). Kamil Mishara was unbeaten on five at the close of play. Sri Lanka still trail India by 495 runs.

India resumed their innings at 300/5 on the second day and lost debutant Saransh Jain for six. However, Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel then put together an attacking partnership that frustrated the Sri Lankan bowlers. The pair added 112 runs for the sixth wicket. Pant scored 63 before being dismissed by Keshara Nuwantha shortly after lunch.

Jurel then took charge of the Indian innings and emerged as the mainstay of the batting lineup. Despite several rain interruptions, the wicketkeeper-batter remained patient and went on to score a brilliant century. Jurel remained unbeaten on 115 off 177 balls and, with valuable support from the lower order, helped India cross the 500-run mark. Manav Suthar contributed 18 runs, while Mohammed Siraj faced 29 balls to support Jurel. For Sri Lanka, Asitha Fernando was the pick of the bowlers with four wickets for 106 runs.

Sri Lanka had only a brief period to bat before the Indian bowlers made an impact. The hosts lost two wickets within three overs, leaving them in a difficult position against India's massive first-innings lead.

With Sri Lanka trailing by 495 runs and two early wickets already down, the hosts face a major challenge on the third day. If rain stays away, India's bowlers will have a chance to put the match firmly under their control.