India tightened their grip on the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo, powered by an unbeaten century from Dhruv Jurel and an attacking 63 from Rishabh Pant.
Jurel produced a composed 115 not out, his second Test century and his first hundred away from home, helping India declare their first innings at a commanding 503/9. His innings came at a crucial stage after India resumed Day 2 on 300/5.
Jurel-Pant Partnership Turns the Game
Jurel combined with Pant for a crucial 112-run seventh-wicket partnership, shutting down Sri Lanka’s hopes of quickly running through India’s lower order. Pant struck 63 before Jurel continued to anchor the innings and push India beyond the 500-run mark.
The century was particularly significant for Jurel, who remained patient during a tense period on 99 before completing the milestone. His unbeaten 115 further strengthened his case as an increasingly important member of India’s Test batting unit.
Indian Bowlers Strike Early
India then carried their momentum into the field. Prasidh Krishna and Manav Suthar struck in the brief evening session, reducing Sri Lanka to just 8/2 after three overs at stumps on Day 2.
That left the hosts trailing India’s first-innings total by a massive 495 runs, putting India firmly in control of the match.
India entered the Colombo Test already holding a 1-0 lead in the series, meaning a victory would strengthen their bid to complete a series win in Sri Lanka.
Jurel’s performance also carried personal significance. After reaching his hundred, he celebrated his family’s connection to India’s soldiers and farmers, later explaining that his father served in the Army while his grandfather was a farmer.
With a huge first-innings total on the board and Sri Lanka losing two early wickets, India have established a commanding position as the Test moves into its next phase.
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