1 month ago
Ravindra Jadeja has been a mainstay of India's Test team for more than a decade, but former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta believes the time has come for the team to start looking beyond the veteran all-rounder in the longest format.
Jadeja aged 37, finished India's recent two-Test tour of Sri Lanka with eight wickets across four innings. However, Dasgupta felt the Indian spin attack failed to consistently exert pressure on the hosts, particularly on surfaces where the visitors would have expected their spinners to play a major role.
The former India player singled out the second Test in Colombo, where Sri Lanka were forced to follow on but managed to fight back strongly. Sonal Dinusha's century helped the hosts frustrate India and build a substantial lead before the match eventually ended in a draw.
While Jadeja picked up three wickets in Sri Lanka's second innings, Dasgupta felt India needed more penetration from their experienced spinners.
"Apart from Manav, our spinners didn't look as lethal as we expected. I'm not saying there is no ability. On such pitches, Jadeja has always been very destructive and lethal. I thought he would be crucial on the fifth day. He has been a great servant, but it's done now. He was not as accurate as he is. His action is very shoulder-dominant," Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.
The Sri Lanka series also highlighted an issue with India's bowling discipline, with the spinners repeatedly overstepping. Saransh Jain, making his Test debut in Colombo, bowled four no-balls, while Jadeja overstepped once. Dasgupta believes such problems need to be addressed during training rather than waiting for them to surface in matches.
"If you are not careful in the nets, it will happen. Even when I was playing, a lot of them would bowl from ahead and say it would not happen in the match, but they would repeat the same thing in the match. You need to avoid this in the nets. This issue is not new with Jadeja; it has only gotten worse," he added.
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India won the two-match series 1-0, with victory by 165 runs in the opening Test in Galle before the second Test in Colombo ended in a draw. India's next Test ******* ignments will come with a tour of New Zealand scheduled for November before Australia travel to India for a five match Test series beginning in January 2027.
#India #dasgupta #colombo #second
Jadeja aged 37, finished India's recent two-Test tour of Sri Lanka with eight wickets across four innings. However, Dasgupta felt the Indian spin attack failed to consistently exert pressure on the hosts, particularly on surfaces where the visitors would have expected their spinners to play a major role.
The former India player singled out the second Test in Colombo, where Sri Lanka were forced to follow on but managed to fight back strongly. Sonal Dinusha's century helped the hosts frustrate India and build a substantial lead before the match eventually ended in a draw.
While Jadeja picked up three wickets in Sri Lanka's second innings, Dasgupta felt India needed more penetration from their experienced spinners.
"Apart from Manav, our spinners didn't look as lethal as we expected. I'm not saying there is no ability. On such pitches, Jadeja has always been very destructive and lethal. I thought he would be crucial on the fifth day. He has been a great servant, but it's done now. He was not as accurate as he is. His action is very shoulder-dominant," Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.
The Sri Lanka series also highlighted an issue with India's bowling discipline, with the spinners repeatedly overstepping. Saransh Jain, making his Test debut in Colombo, bowled four no-balls, while Jadeja overstepped once. Dasgupta believes such problems need to be addressed during training rather than waiting for them to surface in matches.
"If you are not careful in the nets, it will happen. Even when I was playing, a lot of them would bowl from ahead and say it would not happen in the match, but they would repeat the same thing in the match. You need to avoid this in the nets. This issue is not new with Jadeja; it has only gotten worse," he added.
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India won the two-match series 1-0, with victory by 165 runs in the opening Test in Galle before the second Test in Colombo ended in a draw. India's next Test ******* ignments will come with a tour of New Zealand scheduled for November before Australia travel to India for a five match Test series beginning in January 2027.
#India #dasgupta #colombo #second
2 months ago
India's World Test Championship hopes have taken a hit after the Colombo Test ended in a draw, with former India cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth warning that the missed opportunity could have serious consequences for their qualification campaign.
India appeared well placed to complete a 2-0 series sweep after taking control of the second Test. Sri Lanka began the final day with six wickets down, leaving India needing only four more wickets to seal victory.
Instead, the visitors could manage just two wickets as Sonal Dinusha produced a stunning unbeaten century to frustrate India. The Sri Lankan batter remained unbeaten on 133 and stitched together vital partnerships with the lower order, helping the hosts survive and force a draw after following on.
The result meant India had to settle for a 1-0 series victory rather than the 2-0 sweep that had looked within reach.
The dropped opportunity in Colombo could prove significant in the race for the WTC Final. India remain fifth in the standings, with Sri Lanka sixth, and now have very little room for error across their remaining seven Tests.
According to Srikkanth, India may need an almost perfect run from here to stay in control of their qualification hopes.
"This draw will make it difficult for India to qualify for the WTC final. Even if India wins five or six of the last seven matches, they'll have to depend on other results. It's questionable if India can beat Australia 5-0 at home. If we give rank turners in that series, Australia can also beat India," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.
India have seven Tests left in their WTC campaign and need to win at least six of them to control their own destiny.
A major challenge will come when Australia travel to India. Srikkanth cautioned against ****** uming that home conditions will guarantee results, particularly if India prepare heavily turning pitches.
Srikkanth was particularly critical of India's failure to close out the Colombo Test after creating a strong position.
He also highlighted Dinusha's contribution, with the Sri Lankan batter producing twin centuries at the Sinhalese Sports Club and playing a decisive role in keeping his team alive on the final day.
"India messed up big time. Sonal Dinusha was amazing throughout the series. This is where you miss a bowler like ****** rah. You need a finishing bowler like him. Though rain helped Sri Lanka a bit, India should have won the match hands down," said Srikkanth.
Dinusha's unbeaten 133 proved crucial as Sri Lanka survived India's late push and secured a draw, leaving the visitors with a 1-0 series win but also a potentially costly setback in their WTC campaign.
#India #lanka #final #draw
India appeared well placed to complete a 2-0 series sweep after taking control of the second Test. Sri Lanka began the final day with six wickets down, leaving India needing only four more wickets to seal victory.
Instead, the visitors could manage just two wickets as Sonal Dinusha produced a stunning unbeaten century to frustrate India. The Sri Lankan batter remained unbeaten on 133 and stitched together vital partnerships with the lower order, helping the hosts survive and force a draw after following on.
The result meant India had to settle for a 1-0 series victory rather than the 2-0 sweep that had looked within reach.
The dropped opportunity in Colombo could prove significant in the race for the WTC Final. India remain fifth in the standings, with Sri Lanka sixth, and now have very little room for error across their remaining seven Tests.
According to Srikkanth, India may need an almost perfect run from here to stay in control of their qualification hopes.
"This draw will make it difficult for India to qualify for the WTC final. Even if India wins five or six of the last seven matches, they'll have to depend on other results. It's questionable if India can beat Australia 5-0 at home. If we give rank turners in that series, Australia can also beat India," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.
India have seven Tests left in their WTC campaign and need to win at least six of them to control their own destiny.
A major challenge will come when Australia travel to India. Srikkanth cautioned against ****** uming that home conditions will guarantee results, particularly if India prepare heavily turning pitches.
Srikkanth was particularly critical of India's failure to close out the Colombo Test after creating a strong position.
He also highlighted Dinusha's contribution, with the Sri Lankan batter producing twin centuries at the Sinhalese Sports Club and playing a decisive role in keeping his team alive on the final day.
"India messed up big time. Sonal Dinusha was amazing throughout the series. This is where you miss a bowler like ****** rah. You need a finishing bowler like him. Though rain helped Sri Lanka a bit, India should have won the match hands down," said Srikkanth.
Dinusha's unbeaten 133 proved crucial as Sri Lanka survived India's late push and secured a draw, leaving the visitors with a 1-0 series win but also a potentially costly setback in their WTC campaign.
#India #lanka #final #draw
2 months ago
India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised his team for displaying the character and mental strength required in Test cricket after Shubman Gill's side secured a 1-0 series victory over Sri Lanka. India had a chance to complete a 2-0 sweep after winning the series opener in Galle, but Sri Lanka mounted a spirited fightback in Colombo to force a draw despite being asked to follow on.
Following the conclusion of the series, Gambhir took to social media to acknowledge India's performance while also highlighting the impact of Sri Lanka batter Sonal Dinusha.
"Test cricket needs character, patience and mental toughness that's shown by our boys! Special shoutout to Sonal Dinusha for his exceptional performance," Gambhir wrote on X.
Dinusha was the central figure in Sri Lanka's resistance. He scored centuries in both innings of the Colombo Test, including an unbeaten 133 in the second innings, frustrating India's efforts to wrap up the match.
India made a dominant start after choosing to bat first in Colombo. Devdutt Padikkal led the charge with a superb 117, while Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 115. Rishabh Pant added 63 and captain Gill contributed 50 as India amassed 503/9 before declaring. Asitha Fernando was Sri Lanka's most successful bowler, finishing with four wickets.
Sri Lanka were dismissed for 290 in their first innings, but Dinusha once again stood out with a composed 103. Pasindu Sooriyabandara also played an important role, scoring 80, while India's Prasidh Krishna and Manav Suthar claimed three wickets each. Asked to follow on, Sri Lanka were in serious trouble at 218/6 and India appeared to be closing in on another victory. Dinusha, however, refused to give India an opening.
Dinusha joined forces with Keshara Nuwantha to produce a crucial 112-run partnership. Nuwantha's 46 came from 150 deliveries as the pair absorbed pressure and consumed valuable overs. Sri Lanka's lower order then provided further support, allowing Dinusha to remain at the crease until the close.
He finished unbeaten on 133 from 264 ****** , with eight fours and two sixes, as Sri Lanka reached 429/9 to secure the draw. The result ended India's hopes of a clean sweep but secured them a 1-0 series victory.
India had established their series advantage in the opening Test at Galle, where they secured a 165-run victory. Manav Suthar was the star of the contest, claiming his maiden 10-wicket haul in Test cricket, while Padikkal played a pivotal role with a 167 in India's first innings.
#dinusha #lanka #victory
Following the conclusion of the series, Gambhir took to social media to acknowledge India's performance while also highlighting the impact of Sri Lanka batter Sonal Dinusha.
"Test cricket needs character, patience and mental toughness that's shown by our boys! Special shoutout to Sonal Dinusha for his exceptional performance," Gambhir wrote on X.
Dinusha was the central figure in Sri Lanka's resistance. He scored centuries in both innings of the Colombo Test, including an unbeaten 133 in the second innings, frustrating India's efforts to wrap up the match.
India made a dominant start after choosing to bat first in Colombo. Devdutt Padikkal led the charge with a superb 117, while Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 115. Rishabh Pant added 63 and captain Gill contributed 50 as India amassed 503/9 before declaring. Asitha Fernando was Sri Lanka's most successful bowler, finishing with four wickets.
Sri Lanka were dismissed for 290 in their first innings, but Dinusha once again stood out with a composed 103. Pasindu Sooriyabandara also played an important role, scoring 80, while India's Prasidh Krishna and Manav Suthar claimed three wickets each. Asked to follow on, Sri Lanka were in serious trouble at 218/6 and India appeared to be closing in on another victory. Dinusha, however, refused to give India an opening.
Dinusha joined forces with Keshara Nuwantha to produce a crucial 112-run partnership. Nuwantha's 46 came from 150 deliveries as the pair absorbed pressure and consumed valuable overs. Sri Lanka's lower order then provided further support, allowing Dinusha to remain at the crease until the close.
He finished unbeaten on 133 from 264 ****** , with eight fours and two sixes, as Sri Lanka reached 429/9 to secure the draw. The result ended India's hopes of a clean sweep but secured them a 1-0 series victory.
India had established their series advantage in the opening Test at Galle, where they secured a 165-run victory. Manav Suthar was the star of the contest, claiming his maiden 10-wicket haul in Test cricket, while Padikkal played a pivotal role with a 167 in India's first innings.
#dinusha #lanka #victory
2 months ago
Sri Lanka batter Sonal Dinusha emerged as one of the biggest positives from the drawn two-Test series against India, producing a remarkable display of resilience and consistency to thwart the visitors' hopes of a series clean sweep.
Dinusha scored three centuries across his four innings in the series, finishing as the leading run-scorer with 420 runs at an average of 140.00. He also faced 722 deliveries, the most by any batter in the series, underlining the patience and endurance that made him such a difficult player for India to dislodge.
His performance has now earned high praise from former India Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara, who believes the young Sri Lankan has shown glimpses of two of the country's greatest modern-day batters, ****** ar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.
"The way he has batted throughout the series has been phenomenal. He takes me into that era of batters like ****** ar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. When I was growing up, I used to look up to those Sri Lankan players," Pujara said in a video on ESPNcricinfo.
Pujara believes Dinusha has the potential to become one of Sri Lanka's leading batters in the years to come.
"In five to 10 years, Sonal Dinusha can be one of the greats of Sri Lankan cricket. He has shown that potential. The way he batted on the last day of the second Test match, it was a commendable effort," he added.
Dinusha's finest contribution came in the second Test at Colombo, where his unbeaten 133 off 264 ****** ensured Sri Lanka held India to a draw and denied the visitors a series clean sweep.
Coming to the match, India opted to bat first, with centuries from Padikkal (117 in 193 ****** , with 12 fours), Dhruv Jurel (115* in 177 ****** , with nine fours and two sixes) and half-centuries from Rishabh Pant (63 in 89 ****** , with six fours and two sixes) and skipper Gill (50 in 108 ****** , with six fours) taking India to 503/9, with Asitha Fernando taking four-fer.
In their first innings, SL was skittled out for 290, with Dinusha's second century (103 in 162 ****** , with eight fours and three sixes) and a fine 80 from Pasindu Sooriyabandara (in 133 ****** , with nine fours) standing out. Prasidh Krishna and Suthar were among the wickets for India with three each.
During the follow-on, India had SL down for 218/6, but a 112-run stand between Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha (46 in 150 ****** , with four boundaries) pushed Sri Lanka towards a sizeable lead. Dinusha (133* in 264 ****** , with eight fours and two sixes) reached his third ton of the series, with the resistance from lower order, who soaked in deliveries to support him. SL ended at 429/9, drawing the Test.
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#dinusha
Dinusha scored three centuries across his four innings in the series, finishing as the leading run-scorer with 420 runs at an average of 140.00. He also faced 722 deliveries, the most by any batter in the series, underlining the patience and endurance that made him such a difficult player for India to dislodge.
His performance has now earned high praise from former India Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara, who believes the young Sri Lankan has shown glimpses of two of the country's greatest modern-day batters, ****** ar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.
"The way he has batted throughout the series has been phenomenal. He takes me into that era of batters like ****** ar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. When I was growing up, I used to look up to those Sri Lankan players," Pujara said in a video on ESPNcricinfo.
Pujara believes Dinusha has the potential to become one of Sri Lanka's leading batters in the years to come.
"In five to 10 years, Sonal Dinusha can be one of the greats of Sri Lankan cricket. He has shown that potential. The way he batted on the last day of the second Test match, it was a commendable effort," he added.
Dinusha's finest contribution came in the second Test at Colombo, where his unbeaten 133 off 264 ****** ensured Sri Lanka held India to a draw and denied the visitors a series clean sweep.
Coming to the match, India opted to bat first, with centuries from Padikkal (117 in 193 ****** , with 12 fours), Dhruv Jurel (115* in 177 ****** , with nine fours and two sixes) and half-centuries from Rishabh Pant (63 in 89 ****** , with six fours and two sixes) and skipper Gill (50 in 108 ****** , with six fours) taking India to 503/9, with Asitha Fernando taking four-fer.
In their first innings, SL was skittled out for 290, with Dinusha's second century (103 in 162 ****** , with eight fours and three sixes) and a fine 80 from Pasindu Sooriyabandara (in 133 ****** , with nine fours) standing out. Prasidh Krishna and Suthar were among the wickets for India with three each.
During the follow-on, India had SL down for 218/6, but a 112-run stand between Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha (46 in 150 ****** , with four boundaries) pushed Sri Lanka towards a sizeable lead. Dinusha (133* in 264 ****** , with eight fours and two sixes) reached his third ton of the series, with the resistance from lower order, who soaked in deliveries to support him. SL ended at 429/9, drawing the Test.
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#dinusha
2 months ago
Ravichandran Ashwin believes Rishabh Pant needs to show greater awareness of match situations and take more responsibility with the bat, despite the wicketkeeper-batter putting together a respectable series against Sri Lanka.
Pant finished the two-Test series with 168 runs and two half-centuries. However, Ashwin feels the numbers do not tell the complete story and wants the India batter to exercise more judgement when deciding how to attack.
Pant's aggressive approach has come under scrutiny over the past few months, with questions being raised about whether he sometimes takes unnecessary risks and fails to put enough value on his wicket.
The former India spinner pointed to Pant's dismissal against South Africa in Guwahati last year as an example. While captaining India in the absence of Shubman Gill, Pant charged down the track against Marco Jansen and edged the delivery to the wicketkeeper.
Pant is currently a Test-only player for India after falling out of favour in the white-ball formats. Ashwin believes his decision-making in Test cricket remains an area that needs attention.
"My expectation from Rishabh Pant hasn't been fulfilled till now. I am very sorry. Sonal Dinusha had his strike rate up there. But the difference is high-risk options. When you have the game in your hand, these are all statements: 'That's how Rishabh plays.' It is about what your team needs," Ashwin said on 'Ash Ki Baat'.
During the discussion, the host argued that Pant's unique ability and his history of producing match-winning performances meant he should be given some freedom to play his natural game.
Ashwin, however, insisted that even an exceptional player cannot be exempt from the demands of the situation.
"Rishabh played a class knock in Sydney and Brisbane, but you couldn't have won that match without Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur. It takes 11 cricketers to build a Test and win it in the last session of the game, but it takes only 1 moment of foolishness to lose a Test," said Ashwin.
The former off-spinner clarified that his criticism was not directed at Pant's attacking style itself. Instead, he wants the batter to recognise when the situation demands a different approach.
"I am just talking about the times when these chances are being taken when the game is on the line. I love Rishabh the player. It is about playing situations in this format. Sehwag and Gilchrist played high brand of cricket, but these two don't get edged out while dancing down to Marco Jansen when your team is trailing by 500 runs. Don't place these marketing lines in front of me ever again," he added.
Ashwin also called for more straightforward feedback for Pant, arguing that his status as a special talent should not shield him from criticism.
The former India spinner pointed out that Pant has now played 50 Tests and believes his experience means he should be expected to take greater responsibility.
"Don't give one player special treatment. Thi
Pant finished the two-Test series with 168 runs and two half-centuries. However, Ashwin feels the numbers do not tell the complete story and wants the India batter to exercise more judgement when deciding how to attack.
Pant's aggressive approach has come under scrutiny over the past few months, with questions being raised about whether he sometimes takes unnecessary risks and fails to put enough value on his wicket.
The former India spinner pointed to Pant's dismissal against South Africa in Guwahati last year as an example. While captaining India in the absence of Shubman Gill, Pant charged down the track against Marco Jansen and edged the delivery to the wicketkeeper.
Pant is currently a Test-only player for India after falling out of favour in the white-ball formats. Ashwin believes his decision-making in Test cricket remains an area that needs attention.
"My expectation from Rishabh Pant hasn't been fulfilled till now. I am very sorry. Sonal Dinusha had his strike rate up there. But the difference is high-risk options. When you have the game in your hand, these are all statements: 'That's how Rishabh plays.' It is about what your team needs," Ashwin said on 'Ash Ki Baat'.
During the discussion, the host argued that Pant's unique ability and his history of producing match-winning performances meant he should be given some freedom to play his natural game.
Ashwin, however, insisted that even an exceptional player cannot be exempt from the demands of the situation.
"Rishabh played a class knock in Sydney and Brisbane, but you couldn't have won that match without Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur. It takes 11 cricketers to build a Test and win it in the last session of the game, but it takes only 1 moment of foolishness to lose a Test," said Ashwin.
The former off-spinner clarified that his criticism was not directed at Pant's attacking style itself. Instead, he wants the batter to recognise when the situation demands a different approach.
"I am just talking about the times when these chances are being taken when the game is on the line. I love Rishabh the player. It is about playing situations in this format. Sehwag and Gilchrist played high brand of cricket, but these two don't get edged out while dancing down to Marco Jansen when your team is trailing by 500 runs. Don't place these marketing lines in front of me ever again," he added.
Ashwin also called for more straightforward feedback for Pant, arguing that his status as a special talent should not shield him from criticism.
The former India spinner pointed out that Pant has now played 50 Tests and believes his experience means he should be expected to take greater responsibility.
"Don't give one player special treatment. Thi
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: India captain Shubman Gill said "Test cricket won today" after Sri Lanka fought hard to force a draw in the second Test in Colombo on Thursday. India had controlled much of the match and were in a strong position to push for victory.
However, Sonal Dinusha produced another outstanding innings, scoring his second century of the match and staying unbeaten as Sri Lanka survived 154 overs.
The result saw India finish the two-Test series with a 1-0 victory.
Gill said India made every possible effort during Sri Lanka's long second innings but could not break through their resistance.
"We fielded for about 150 overs, we did everything that we can. I don't think we could have done anything differently. Keeping the weather in mind, we could talk about these things (enforcing follow-on) only in hindsight.
"You take the best decision you can in the moment and something didn't go our way. But it was a brilliant game and I think Test cricket won today," Gill said after the match here on Thursday.
Gill also gave credit to Sri Lanka for their fightback and said India could learn from the way the hosts responded under pressure.
"A lot of positives for us, learning from the opposition. The way they came back, it was tremendous to see. I don't think we could have done things differently. They bowled brilliantly in this game."
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Gill also spoke highly of left-arm spinner Manav Suthar and backed him to play an important role for India in the future.
"How well he releases the ball, I think he's going to be crucial for us in the upcoming years," Gill said.
#India
However, Sonal Dinusha produced another outstanding innings, scoring his second century of the match and staying unbeaten as Sri Lanka survived 154 overs.
The result saw India finish the two-Test series with a 1-0 victory.
Gill said India made every possible effort during Sri Lanka's long second innings but could not break through their resistance.
"We fielded for about 150 overs, we did everything that we can. I don't think we could have done anything differently. Keeping the weather in mind, we could talk about these things (enforcing follow-on) only in hindsight.
"You take the best decision you can in the moment and something didn't go our way. But it was a brilliant game and I think Test cricket won today," Gill said after the match here on Thursday.
Gill also gave credit to Sri Lanka for their fightback and said India could learn from the way the hosts responded under pressure.
"A lot of positives for us, learning from the opposition. The way they came back, it was tremendous to see. I don't think we could have done things differently. They bowled brilliantly in this game."
133581470
Gill also spoke highly of left-arm spinner Manav Suthar and backed him to play an important role for India in the future.
"How well he releases the ball, I think he's going to be crucial for us in the upcoming years," Gill said.
#India
2 months ago
TimesofIndia.com in Colombo: In his first press conference of the tour, Shubman Gill termed qualifying for the World Test Championship as the "ultimate goal," a sentiment he maintained while preparing to leave the country. In between his two media interactions, the Indian captain saw his team register a comprehensive win in Galle and then settle for a draw in a fixture they were well positioned to win in Colombo. Although the series was won, the trophy secured, and his undefeated run as captain checked off crucial boxes, India left behind crucial WTC points needed to boost their win percentage.
As captain, he had his most challenging few days under the sun in Colombo when Sonal Dinusha and the Sri Lanka's tail frustrated the visitors and prevented them from getting the result they desperately wanted. There were moments he would helplessly stand and observe from the short-cover position, have an intense chat with head coach Gautam Gambhir when nothing worked and then even egg his teammates on when their shoulders started dropping.
"It gets very frustrating," he said regarding the challenges, explaining the questions that follow. "Was follow-on the best decision, was it not? But then you have to go back in the moment and see, what can I do? Did I make the best decision in that moment? Yes, I did. Then you can't do anything about it. You have to keep trying your best, and I think we did that," added the Indian captain.
While they struggled to remove the Sri Lankan tail in both innings, Gill was not ready to pin the blame on any of his teammates and lauded their effort.
"We tried all that we could, and at the end of the day, even from the players, you can expect them giving their 100%, their top efforts, and I don't think there was any lacking in intensity or the efforts that we put in," said Gill.
Highlighting the volume of overs the spinners bowled on a surface which became easier to bat as the game progressed, Gill gave them 10/10 for effort and intent, and continued to focus on the ultimate goal - the World Test Championship.
"The spinners bowled 50-60 overs on the trot for three days. Fielding for three days is not an easy task in these conditions with the heat. In terms of effort, I would say 10 out of 10 for the effort and the intent. A lot of learning, so many things won't always go as you plan, but as long as we still have a chance to qualify for the World Test Championship," added Gill.
India operated with in-out field positions for most of the match, offering significant protection against the sweep, especially when Sonal Dinusha was at the crease. While it did open up easy singles, Gill felt there couldn't have been a better plan as the slow turn off the surface meant bowled and LBW were the dismissals out of the equation.
"The ball was spinning but the wickets were not in play. As a batsman, if you know that your bowlers do not have 2 modes of dismissal in play, then it becomes easier to bat. Unless you are play
As captain, he had his most challenging few days under the sun in Colombo when Sonal Dinusha and the Sri Lanka's tail frustrated the visitors and prevented them from getting the result they desperately wanted. There were moments he would helplessly stand and observe from the short-cover position, have an intense chat with head coach Gautam Gambhir when nothing worked and then even egg his teammates on when their shoulders started dropping.
"It gets very frustrating," he said regarding the challenges, explaining the questions that follow. "Was follow-on the best decision, was it not? But then you have to go back in the moment and see, what can I do? Did I make the best decision in that moment? Yes, I did. Then you can't do anything about it. You have to keep trying your best, and I think we did that," added the Indian captain.
While they struggled to remove the Sri Lankan tail in both innings, Gill was not ready to pin the blame on any of his teammates and lauded their effort.
"We tried all that we could, and at the end of the day, even from the players, you can expect them giving their 100%, their top efforts, and I don't think there was any lacking in intensity or the efforts that we put in," said Gill.
Highlighting the volume of overs the spinners bowled on a surface which became easier to bat as the game progressed, Gill gave them 10/10 for effort and intent, and continued to focus on the ultimate goal - the World Test Championship.
"The spinners bowled 50-60 overs on the trot for three days. Fielding for three days is not an easy task in these conditions with the heat. In terms of effort, I would say 10 out of 10 for the effort and the intent. A lot of learning, so many things won't always go as you plan, but as long as we still have a chance to qualify for the World Test Championship," added Gill.
India operated with in-out field positions for most of the match, offering significant protection against the sweep, especially when Sonal Dinusha was at the crease. While it did open up easy singles, Gill felt there couldn't have been a better plan as the slow turn off the surface meant bowled and LBW were the dismissals out of the equation.
"The ball was spinning but the wickets were not in play. As a batsman, if you know that your bowlers do not have 2 modes of dismissal in play, then it becomes easier to bat. Unless you are play
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: India captain Shubman Gill on Thursday ruled out any injury concern for Mohammed Siraj after the pacer appeared to be below his best during the drawn second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo.
Siraj bowled at a reduced pace and often used a shorter run-up during the Test. His fitness also came under the scanner after he landed heavily while trying to take a catch in Sri Lanka's first innings.
Gill, however, made it clear that Siraj was not carrying an injury.
Gill said Siraj had not been feeling his best even during the first Test in Galle and was also returning to international cricket after a break.
"Firstly, Siraj is not injured. He didn't feel well even in the first match (at Galle). He last played against Afghanistan in June…so he was playing almost after a couple of months. It takes time for someone to come back to the rhythm.
"Even in the first Test, we felt that his pace was slow. But sometimes when you play more, you come back to the rhythm. But as far as the injury is concerned, there is nothing," he said.
Siraj's lack of his usual pace was noticeable as India struggled to finish off Sri Lanka on the fifth day. The hosts batted through the final day, with Sonal Dinusha scoring an unbeaten 133 to secure a draw.
India had reduced Sri Lanka to 229/6 by the end of the fourth day but could not force the remaining wickets on the final day.
"It gets very frustrating. We attacked a lot in the beginning. But I think as the match went on, the wicket got slower. It was not like the ball was not moving and when the ball was spinning, the wickets were not in play. It was not like the wicket was very flat," said Gill at the post-match press meet.
The India captain said Sri Lanka's defensive approach made it difficult for his bowlers to create chances.
"Unless you are playing a shot and looking to make a run, then it is difficult to take a wicket. We tried all that we could, and I don't think there was any lack of intensity or the efforts that we put in. The spinners bowled 50-60 overs on the trot for three days.
"Fielding for three days is not an easy task in these conditions. I would say 10 out of 10 for the effort and the intent. They also played really well," he added.
Gill also felt India could have been in a better position if they had taken their chances on the fourth day.
"On day 4, we thought we had created chances. If there was a little more pressure, the wickets would have come and then maybe the result would have been better. But as long as we still have a chance to qualify for the World Test Championship (final), it's fine."
Gill was pleased with the progress made by Prasidh Krishna.
"I think he's been in the pick of our bowlers. When things are not happening, he's been our go-to bowler, especially this season. He's created chances, which is what I want as a captain. We want a go-to bowler when wickets are not guaranteed. I think he did that brilliantly," he said.
#India #siraj
Siraj bowled at a reduced pace and often used a shorter run-up during the Test. His fitness also came under the scanner after he landed heavily while trying to take a catch in Sri Lanka's first innings.
Gill, however, made it clear that Siraj was not carrying an injury.
Gill said Siraj had not been feeling his best even during the first Test in Galle and was also returning to international cricket after a break.
"Firstly, Siraj is not injured. He didn't feel well even in the first match (at Galle). He last played against Afghanistan in June…so he was playing almost after a couple of months. It takes time for someone to come back to the rhythm.
"Even in the first Test, we felt that his pace was slow. But sometimes when you play more, you come back to the rhythm. But as far as the injury is concerned, there is nothing," he said.
Siraj's lack of his usual pace was noticeable as India struggled to finish off Sri Lanka on the fifth day. The hosts batted through the final day, with Sonal Dinusha scoring an unbeaten 133 to secure a draw.
India had reduced Sri Lanka to 229/6 by the end of the fourth day but could not force the remaining wickets on the final day.
"It gets very frustrating. We attacked a lot in the beginning. But I think as the match went on, the wicket got slower. It was not like the ball was not moving and when the ball was spinning, the wickets were not in play. It was not like the wicket was very flat," said Gill at the post-match press meet.
The India captain said Sri Lanka's defensive approach made it difficult for his bowlers to create chances.
"Unless you are playing a shot and looking to make a run, then it is difficult to take a wicket. We tried all that we could, and I don't think there was any lack of intensity or the efforts that we put in. The spinners bowled 50-60 overs on the trot for three days.
"Fielding for three days is not an easy task in these conditions. I would say 10 out of 10 for the effort and the intent. They also played really well," he added.
Gill also felt India could have been in a better position if they had taken their chances on the fourth day.
"On day 4, we thought we had created chances. If there was a little more pressure, the wickets would have come and then maybe the result would have been better. But as long as we still have a chance to qualify for the World Test Championship (final), it's fine."
Gill was pleased with the progress made by Prasidh Krishna.
"I think he's been in the pick of our bowlers. When things are not happening, he's been our go-to bowler, especially this season. He's created chances, which is what I want as a captain. We want a go-to bowler when wickets are not guaranteed. I think he did that brilliantly," he said.
#India #siraj
2 months ago
TimesofIndia.com in Colombo: With the handshake looming, Shubman Gill introduced himself into the attack. Judging by their body language, India had already checked out of the fixture with Sri Lanka's lead over 200 runs and little time remaining. A result in India's favour was almost out of the equation and the visitors were waiting for the formalities to be completed. Yashasvi Jaiswal was introduced from the other end, and even Dhruv Jurel rolled his arm over as the writing was on the cards. India would rue drawing a Test they were in a very good position of winning, squandering the opportunity to bolster their World Test Championship (WTC) final chances.
Sometimes, draws feel like wins and Sri Lanka must have a similar feeling in Colombo. With chips down and backs to the wall, Sonal Dinusha produced a performance for the ages, who had an equally stubborn lower-order for company. He has been the rockstar for the hosts in this series and made India dance to his tunes when he battled for close to two days to eke out a hard-fought draw. The 25-year-old's sequence of scores in the series read 100, 84, 103 and 133*, and across the four innings his compact technique, composure and solid temperament stood out.
It wasn't easy; whenever he came out to bat, the team was in a spot of bother and he mostly had the lower-order and tail for company. In the second Test alone, he spent nearly 147 overs out in the middle, facing 71 overs, frustrating the visitors and keeping the win out of their reach.
It didn't help that Mohammed Siraj wasn't running in with the steam he would have liked and the pitch offered turn but not enough threat. The tone was set by the pair of Keshara Nuwantha and Dinusha for over 40 overs and the former ended up playing 150 deliveries in the process. Lahiru ***** ara and Asitha Fernando followed the drill and India just carried on in hopes of things miraculously falling into place.
The 116th over of the Sri Lankan innings was significant in more ways than one. Siraj patiently waited to bowl as Sarfaraz Khan suggested field changes to Shubman Gill before the fast bowler began. The short-ball trap was set. After trying it for two deliveries, which Sonal Dinusha ducked safely, the bowler walked up to the stumps and flipped the bails. This was India's second attempt, followed by a very creative field setting, likely the first of its kind that day.
The entire field moved towards the off-side, placing enough men in catching positions for a miscued drive. Dinusha had been pushed back for most of the over and here Siraj was trying to induce a false shot from the most consistent batter of the series. The plan didn't work but India's attempt to finally make things happen brought success when Prabath Jayasuriya was dismissed in the very next over while driving against Ravindra Jadeja. India, even after picking up two wickets in the first hour after Lunch, were still two wickets away from beginning their chase but that 12-ball perio
Sometimes, draws feel like wins and Sri Lanka must have a similar feeling in Colombo. With chips down and backs to the wall, Sonal Dinusha produced a performance for the ages, who had an equally stubborn lower-order for company. He has been the rockstar for the hosts in this series and made India dance to his tunes when he battled for close to two days to eke out a hard-fought draw. The 25-year-old's sequence of scores in the series read 100, 84, 103 and 133*, and across the four innings his compact technique, composure and solid temperament stood out.
It wasn't easy; whenever he came out to bat, the team was in a spot of bother and he mostly had the lower-order and tail for company. In the second Test alone, he spent nearly 147 overs out in the middle, facing 71 overs, frustrating the visitors and keeping the win out of their reach.
It didn't help that Mohammed Siraj wasn't running in with the steam he would have liked and the pitch offered turn but not enough threat. The tone was set by the pair of Keshara Nuwantha and Dinusha for over 40 overs and the former ended up playing 150 deliveries in the process. Lahiru ***** ara and Asitha Fernando followed the drill and India just carried on in hopes of things miraculously falling into place.
The 116th over of the Sri Lankan innings was significant in more ways than one. Siraj patiently waited to bowl as Sarfaraz Khan suggested field changes to Shubman Gill before the fast bowler began. The short-ball trap was set. After trying it for two deliveries, which Sonal Dinusha ducked safely, the bowler walked up to the stumps and flipped the bails. This was India's second attempt, followed by a very creative field setting, likely the first of its kind that day.
The entire field moved towards the off-side, placing enough men in catching positions for a miscued drive. Dinusha had been pushed back for most of the over and here Siraj was trying to induce a false shot from the most consistent batter of the series. The plan didn't work but India's attempt to finally make things happen brought success when Prabath Jayasuriya was dismissed in the very next over while driving against Ravindra Jadeja. India, even after picking up two wickets in the first hour after Lunch, were still two wickets away from beginning their chase but that 12-ball perio
2 months ago
India appeared to have wrested control of the second Test against Sri Lanka after a late burst of wickets, but rain could yet play a major role in determining the outcome of the Test and, in turn, India's WTC campaign.
Sri Lanka were 218 for 6 in their second innings when play was called off early, with Sonal Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha unbeaten at the crease. The hosts had earlier mounted a spirited fightback through Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Kamindu Mendis, raising the prospect of a draw if further rain disrupts the final day.
Such an outcome could hurt India's chances of making the WTC final.
India are currently fifth in the WTC standings with a points percentage of 53.33. A victory over Sri Lanka would lift Shubman Gill's side to fourth place following Bangladesh's heavy defeat to Australia. A draw, however, would leave India in fifth place with their PCT slipping to 51.52.
The bigger concern is the shrinking margin for error in the remainder of the cycle.
India will have seven Tests left after this match, including a two-Test tour of New Zealand in November before a five-Test home series against Australia next year. Having already lost four of their 10 Tests in the current cycle, India can ill afford many more setbacks.
If India win seven of their remaining eight Tests, including this match, they can finish with a PCT of 68.52. But six wins and two defeats would leave them at 62.96, a figure that may not be enough based on recent qualification trends.
Three of the four teams to reach the WTC final across the last two cycles had a PCT of more than 65, with India's 58.8 in the 2023 cycle the lone exception. Both finalists in 2025 finished above 67.
The calculations also ******* ume India do not lose any points through over-rate penalties.
For now, India remain well placed in the Test after Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain struck regularly in the final session. But with Sri Lanka still fighting and rain already interrupting play, a result remains crucial not just for the series but for India's increasingly tight road to the WTC final.
#test #final
Sri Lanka were 218 for 6 in their second innings when play was called off early, with Sonal Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha unbeaten at the crease. The hosts had earlier mounted a spirited fightback through Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Kamindu Mendis, raising the prospect of a draw if further rain disrupts the final day.
Such an outcome could hurt India's chances of making the WTC final.
India are currently fifth in the WTC standings with a points percentage of 53.33. A victory over Sri Lanka would lift Shubman Gill's side to fourth place following Bangladesh's heavy defeat to Australia. A draw, however, would leave India in fifth place with their PCT slipping to 51.52.
The bigger concern is the shrinking margin for error in the remainder of the cycle.
India will have seven Tests left after this match, including a two-Test tour of New Zealand in November before a five-Test home series against Australia next year. Having already lost four of their 10 Tests in the current cycle, India can ill afford many more setbacks.
If India win seven of their remaining eight Tests, including this match, they can finish with a PCT of 68.52. But six wins and two defeats would leave them at 62.96, a figure that may not be enough based on recent qualification trends.
Three of the four teams to reach the WTC final across the last two cycles had a PCT of more than 65, with India's 58.8 in the 2023 cycle the lone exception. Both finalists in 2025 finished above 67.
The calculations also ******* ume India do not lose any points through over-rate penalties.
For now, India remain well placed in the Test after Manav Suthar and Saransh Jain struck regularly in the final session. But with Sri Lanka still fighting and rain already interrupting play, a result remains crucial not just for the series but for India's increasingly tight road to the WTC final.
#test #final
2 months ago
If it's Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel that have emerged as India's batting stars of the future in this series, Sonal Dinusha is making a similar statement for Sri Lanka. The left-hander followed his scores of 100 and 84 in Galle with an unbeaten 85 (137b, 2x6) to lead a gritty fightback on a rain-hit third day of the second Test at SSC on Tuesday.
Dinusha found an able ally in fellow youngster Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who struck 80 (133b, 9x4) in only his second Test innings, as Sri Lanka frustrated India for large parts of the day before ending on 265 for eight. The hosts still require 38 runs to avoid the follow-on after India posted 503 for nine declared, but the resistance shown by their young batting brigade has ensured they remain in the contest.
Dinusha, now the leading run-scorer of the series with 269 runs at 134.50, was closing in on a second Test century in as many matches when rain and bad light forced an early finish to the proceedings. Together with Lahiru **** ara (8 batting), he added an unbeaten 35-run stand for the ninth wicket, after earlier sharing a crucial 57-run partnership with Keshara Nuwantha (18).
The 25-year-old has now registered three consecutive 80-plus scores in the series, underlining his credentials as a long-term solution to Sri Lanka's batting woes in the middle order. With Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal unavailable, Dinusha has shouldered responsibility admirably.
India had appeared well placed to secure a sizeable lead and potentially enforce the follow-on after reducing Sri Lanka to 216/7. However, Dinusha and the lower order displayed plenty of resolve to blunt the visitors' bowling attack.
Earlier, Sri Lanka showed intent from the outset. Sooriyabandara and Kamindu Mendis (32) stitched together an 87-run third-wicket partnership, helping the hosts add 122 runs while losing only two wickets in the opening session. Sooriyabandara brought up his maiden Test fifty off 76 **** before falling to Ravindra Jadeja while attempting a late cut.
Prasidh Krishna was India's standout bowler, returning figures of 3/57. The pacer provided the early breakthrough when debutant opener Kamil Mishara (19) gloved a sharply rising delivery to wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel. Prasidh later removed Kamindu with another short ball.
Manav Suthar then dismissed captain Dhananjaya de Silva for 8 with a delivery that spun away sharply, while Mohammed Siraj accounted for Niroshan **** wella, who gloved a leg-side catch to wicketkeeper Jurel for a duck.
Yet, Sri Lanka refused to surrender. Aided by interruptions and determined lower-order resistance, Dinusha ensured India were left waiting for the final two wickets.
#dinusha #batting
Dinusha found an able ally in fellow youngster Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who struck 80 (133b, 9x4) in only his second Test innings, as Sri Lanka frustrated India for large parts of the day before ending on 265 for eight. The hosts still require 38 runs to avoid the follow-on after India posted 503 for nine declared, but the resistance shown by their young batting brigade has ensured they remain in the contest.
Dinusha, now the leading run-scorer of the series with 269 runs at 134.50, was closing in on a second Test century in as many matches when rain and bad light forced an early finish to the proceedings. Together with Lahiru **** ara (8 batting), he added an unbeaten 35-run stand for the ninth wicket, after earlier sharing a crucial 57-run partnership with Keshara Nuwantha (18).
The 25-year-old has now registered three consecutive 80-plus scores in the series, underlining his credentials as a long-term solution to Sri Lanka's batting woes in the middle order. With Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal unavailable, Dinusha has shouldered responsibility admirably.
India had appeared well placed to secure a sizeable lead and potentially enforce the follow-on after reducing Sri Lanka to 216/7. However, Dinusha and the lower order displayed plenty of resolve to blunt the visitors' bowling attack.
Earlier, Sri Lanka showed intent from the outset. Sooriyabandara and Kamindu Mendis (32) stitched together an 87-run third-wicket partnership, helping the hosts add 122 runs while losing only two wickets in the opening session. Sooriyabandara brought up his maiden Test fifty off 76 **** before falling to Ravindra Jadeja while attempting a late cut.
Prasidh Krishna was India's standout bowler, returning figures of 3/57. The pacer provided the early breakthrough when debutant opener Kamil Mishara (19) gloved a sharply rising delivery to wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel. Prasidh later removed Kamindu with another short ball.
Manav Suthar then dismissed captain Dhananjaya de Silva for 8 with a delivery that spun away sharply, while Mohammed Siraj accounted for Niroshan **** wella, who gloved a leg-side catch to wicketkeeper Jurel for a duck.
Yet, Sri Lanka refused to surrender. Aided by interruptions and determined lower-order resistance, Dinusha ensured India were left waiting for the final two wickets.
#dinusha #batting
2 months ago
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — Sri Lanka reached lunch at 83-2 in its second innings Wednesday, still 130 behind in the second cricket test after India enforced the follow on.
Prasidh Krishna and Manav Suthar took three wickets each as Sri Lanka was dismissed for 290 in reply to India's first innings of 503-9 declared.
At the break, Pasindu Sooriyabandara was not out on 35 and Kamindu Mendis was unbeaten on 10.
Sri Lanka started Day 4 at 265-8 at the Sinhalese Sports Club with No. 7 batsman Sonal Dinusha closing in on a century and just 39 runs away from avoiding the follow on.
But, off spinner Saransh Jain accounted for the last two wickets as Sri Lanka gave up a 213-run first innings lead.
#innings #second #prasidh
Prasidh Krishna and Manav Suthar took three wickets each as Sri Lanka was dismissed for 290 in reply to India's first innings of 503-9 declared.
At the break, Pasindu Sooriyabandara was not out on 35 and Kamindu Mendis was unbeaten on 10.
Sri Lanka started Day 4 at 265-8 at the Sinhalese Sports Club with No. 7 batsman Sonal Dinusha closing in on a century and just 39 runs away from avoiding the follow on.
But, off spinner Saransh Jain accounted for the last two wickets as Sri Lanka gave up a 213-run first innings lead.
#innings #second #prasidh
2 months ago
Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif has questioned captain Shubman Gill's use of Kuldeep Yadav in the first Test against Sri Lanka at Galle, saying the spinner's short spells suggested a lack of faith in him.
Kuldeep bowled only 25 overs across India's two innings in the Test and took one wicket, while left-arm spinner Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja bowled around 44 overs each and shared 14 wickets. India won the Test by 165 runs.
Kaif, speaking on his YouTube channel, said Kuldeep is a rare type of bowler and needs the backing of the captain and team management.
"From how he was used, it is clear that Shubman Gill doesn't have enough faith in Kuldeep Yadav. From my point of view, you would not get a unique bowler like Kuldeep that often. They come just once or twice in history. We may get Ravindra Jadeja's replacement in the future, like we have Suthar; then we had Washington Sundar after Ashwin, but Kuldeep is a unique gift."
Kaif also said wrist-spinners need longer spells to settle into a rhythm and work on their mistakes.
"When you give a bowler a spell, especially a wrist-spinner, you need to give him a long spell. The short spells are not helping Kuldeep. Longer spells give you the chance to rectify mistakes. You need time to get into rhythm. Shubman Gill did not back him in that sense," he said, as quoted by news agency ANI.
Kaif backed former India head coach Ravi Shastri's ******* sment that Kuldeep is India's No. 1 spinner in overseas conditions. He said the left-arm wrist-spinner could be particularly important on flatter pitches where there is less ******* istance from the surface.
"I agree with Ravi Shastri, who said that Kuldeep is our No. 1 spinner in overseas conditions. You just need accuracy on turning tracks. You will somehow get a wicket by bowling at the same area. But you won't get such turning tracks in New Zealand. I feel Kuldeep will play a major role on flat pitches or pitches where there would not be much turn on offer. You will have to keep his confidence high as captain and team management," Kaif said.
India's next Test is in Colombo from August 23, and Kaif believes the team could consider handing a debut to Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Saransh Jain.
He pointed to Sri Lanka's left-handed batters Niroshan ******* wella and Sonal Dinusha, who scored runs in the first Test, as a possible reason for India to consider an off-spinner.
"I feel India might be considering playing Saransh Jain in Colombo. The two batters who scored runs, ******* wella and Sonal, are both lefties. There came a time when Shubman Gill was searching for an off-spinner when they were batting. Because of Sri Lanka's in-form lefties, maybe Kuldeep will have to face the axe. It was Suthar vs Saransh earlier; now it will be Kuldeep vs Saransh," he signed off.
Kuldeep, who made his Test debut in 2018, has played 19 Tests and taken 80 wickets at an average of 23.36. He has four four-wicket hauls and five five-wicket h
Kuldeep bowled only 25 overs across India's two innings in the Test and took one wicket, while left-arm spinner Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja bowled around 44 overs each and shared 14 wickets. India won the Test by 165 runs.
Kaif, speaking on his YouTube channel, said Kuldeep is a rare type of bowler and needs the backing of the captain and team management.
"From how he was used, it is clear that Shubman Gill doesn't have enough faith in Kuldeep Yadav. From my point of view, you would not get a unique bowler like Kuldeep that often. They come just once or twice in history. We may get Ravindra Jadeja's replacement in the future, like we have Suthar; then we had Washington Sundar after Ashwin, but Kuldeep is a unique gift."
Kaif also said wrist-spinners need longer spells to settle into a rhythm and work on their mistakes.
"When you give a bowler a spell, especially a wrist-spinner, you need to give him a long spell. The short spells are not helping Kuldeep. Longer spells give you the chance to rectify mistakes. You need time to get into rhythm. Shubman Gill did not back him in that sense," he said, as quoted by news agency ANI.
Kaif backed former India head coach Ravi Shastri's ******* sment that Kuldeep is India's No. 1 spinner in overseas conditions. He said the left-arm wrist-spinner could be particularly important on flatter pitches where there is less ******* istance from the surface.
"I agree with Ravi Shastri, who said that Kuldeep is our No. 1 spinner in overseas conditions. You just need accuracy on turning tracks. You will somehow get a wicket by bowling at the same area. But you won't get such turning tracks in New Zealand. I feel Kuldeep will play a major role on flat pitches or pitches where there would not be much turn on offer. You will have to keep his confidence high as captain and team management," Kaif said.
India's next Test is in Colombo from August 23, and Kaif believes the team could consider handing a debut to Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Saransh Jain.
He pointed to Sri Lanka's left-handed batters Niroshan ******* wella and Sonal Dinusha, who scored runs in the first Test, as a possible reason for India to consider an off-spinner.
"I feel India might be considering playing Saransh Jain in Colombo. The two batters who scored runs, ******* wella and Sonal, are both lefties. There came a time when Shubman Gill was searching for an off-spinner when they were batting. Because of Sri Lanka's in-form lefties, maybe Kuldeep will have to face the axe. It was Suthar vs Saransh earlier; now it will be Kuldeep vs Saransh," he signed off.
Kuldeep, who made his Test debut in 2018, has played 19 Tests and taken 80 wickets at an average of 23.36. He has four four-wicket hauls and five five-wicket h
2 months ago
Sri Lanka have added off-spin all-rounder Sahan Arachchige and batter Kamil Mishara to their squad for the second and final Test against India, starting in Colombo on August 23.
Sri Lanka need a win to draw the two-match series after India won the opening Test in Galle by 165 runs.
The hosts will be without Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal for the Colombo Test.
Arachchige, who has played five ODIs and one T20I, has been brought in for Kusal Mendis. He impressed while captaining Sri Lanka A against India A last month, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer in the series with 209 runs.
Top-order batter Kamil Mishara has replaced Nishan Fernando, who did not make an impact in the Galle Test.
After the first Test, Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten confirmed that Kusal Mendis has a "proper hamstring injury" and will be unavailable for some time.
Chandimal, meanwhile, was ruled out after sustaining an injury on the fourth day of the Galle Test. He has to serve a minimum seven-day stand-down period under concussion protocols.
Pasindu Sooriyabandara replaced Chandimal as a concussion substitute and will remain with the squad for the second Test.
Sri Lanka will now look to make changes to their playing XI as they attempt to level the series in Colombo.
Sri Lanka squad for the 2nd Test
Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Kamindu Mendis (Vice Captain), Dhananjaya De Silva (Captain), Sahan Arachchige, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan **** wella, Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Ratnayake, Lahiru **** ara, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando.
#arachchige
Sri Lanka need a win to draw the two-match series after India won the opening Test in Galle by 165 runs.
The hosts will be without Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal for the Colombo Test.
Arachchige, who has played five ODIs and one T20I, has been brought in for Kusal Mendis. He impressed while captaining Sri Lanka A against India A last month, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer in the series with 209 runs.
Top-order batter Kamil Mishara has replaced Nishan Fernando, who did not make an impact in the Galle Test.
After the first Test, Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten confirmed that Kusal Mendis has a "proper hamstring injury" and will be unavailable for some time.
Chandimal, meanwhile, was ruled out after sustaining an injury on the fourth day of the Galle Test. He has to serve a minimum seven-day stand-down period under concussion protocols.
Pasindu Sooriyabandara replaced Chandimal as a concussion substitute and will remain with the squad for the second Test.
Sri Lanka will now look to make changes to their playing XI as they attempt to level the series in Colombo.
Sri Lanka squad for the 2nd Test
Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Kamindu Mendis (Vice Captain), Dhananjaya De Silva (Captain), Sahan Arachchige, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan **** wella, Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Ratnayake, Lahiru **** ara, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando.
#arachchige
2 months ago
Talk about arriving in Test cricket with a bang. Just minutes after Manav Suthar bowled debutant Keshara Nuwantha to seal India's emphatic 165-run win over Sri Lanka in the first Test at the Galle International Cricket Stadium, heavy rain lashed the venue.
By then, however, the damage had been done, with the young left-arm spinner delivering a performance for the ages.
Suthar ripped through Sri Lanka's lower order in a sensational spell. In the 76th over, he bowled a three-wicket maiden, dismissing the resolute Sonal Dinusha (84; 128b, 8x4, 1x6), who was caught at leg slip by Dhruv Jurel, before removing Prabhat Jayasuriya for a duck off the very next ball. Though he missed out on a hat-trick, Suthar completed his second five-wicket haul in Test cricket by having Lahiru ****** ara caught behind.
His late burst earned him figures of 6-55 in 23.4 overs as Sri Lanka were dismissed for 206 in 77.4 overs while chasing an improbable 372. The 24-year-old finished with match figures of 10/131 in 45.2 overs after taking 4-76 in the first innings, making him the undisputed architect of India's victory and making the team's 600th Test memorable.
The victory also kept India firmly in contention for a place in the 2027 World Test Championship final. They remain fifth in the standings but improved their points percentage to 53.33 while Sri Lanka stayed sixth on 33.33. Australia currently lead the table, followed by South Africa. With one match left in the series, Sri Lanka can no longer win it but will aim to deny India a series victory in the second Test beginning on Sunday.
Chasing what would have been the highest successful fourth-innings total in Galle, Sri Lanka never threatened after beginning the final day at 84-4. While Suthar dominated proceedings, pacer Prasidh Krishna also played a key role, producing a fiery spell to finish with 2-16 from 10 overs.
Prasidh's second wicket came after an intriguing exchange involving Niroshan ****** wella. Amid constant chatter from Yashasvi Jaiswal, who challenged him to play the hook shot and jokingly suggested he could recommend him to his IPL coach ****** ar Sangakkara, ****** wella appeared distracted.
Attempting an ambitious stroke after backing away from the stumps, the left-hander top-edged to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and departed for 10.
Kuldeep Yadav, meanwhile, looked off-colour, returning figures of 1/38 from 11 overs, which could prompt discussions about giving rookie off-spinner Saransh Jain an opportunity in Colombo.
#suthar #Cricket #left #victory
By then, however, the damage had been done, with the young left-arm spinner delivering a performance for the ages.
Suthar ripped through Sri Lanka's lower order in a sensational spell. In the 76th over, he bowled a three-wicket maiden, dismissing the resolute Sonal Dinusha (84; 128b, 8x4, 1x6), who was caught at leg slip by Dhruv Jurel, before removing Prabhat Jayasuriya for a duck off the very next ball. Though he missed out on a hat-trick, Suthar completed his second five-wicket haul in Test cricket by having Lahiru ****** ara caught behind.
His late burst earned him figures of 6-55 in 23.4 overs as Sri Lanka were dismissed for 206 in 77.4 overs while chasing an improbable 372. The 24-year-old finished with match figures of 10/131 in 45.2 overs after taking 4-76 in the first innings, making him the undisputed architect of India's victory and making the team's 600th Test memorable.
The victory also kept India firmly in contention for a place in the 2027 World Test Championship final. They remain fifth in the standings but improved their points percentage to 53.33 while Sri Lanka stayed sixth on 33.33. Australia currently lead the table, followed by South Africa. With one match left in the series, Sri Lanka can no longer win it but will aim to deny India a series victory in the second Test beginning on Sunday.
Chasing what would have been the highest successful fourth-innings total in Galle, Sri Lanka never threatened after beginning the final day at 84-4. While Suthar dominated proceedings, pacer Prasidh Krishna also played a key role, producing a fiery spell to finish with 2-16 from 10 overs.
Prasidh's second wicket came after an intriguing exchange involving Niroshan ****** wella. Amid constant chatter from Yashasvi Jaiswal, who challenged him to play the hook shot and jokingly suggested he could recommend him to his IPL coach ****** ar Sangakkara, ****** wella appeared distracted.
Attempting an ambitious stroke after backing away from the stumps, the left-hander top-edged to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and departed for 10.
Kuldeep Yadav, meanwhile, looked off-colour, returning figures of 1/38 from 11 overs, which could prompt discussions about giving rookie off-spinner Saransh Jain an opportunity in Colombo.
#suthar #Cricket #left #victory
2 months ago
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) have announced a 16-member squad for the opening Test of their two-match series against India, with veteran wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan ******* wella making his return to the Test side.
Dhananjaya de Silva will captain the team, while Kamindu Mendis has been named his deputy. ******* wella has been included as the wicketkeeper after Kusal Mendis was ruled out of the first Test with an injury.
Batter Pathum Nissanka has also been left out of the squad for the opening match.
Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Sonal Dinusha make up the rest of Sri Lanka's batting options.
The hosts have three specialist spinners in Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha. Their pace department includes Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru ******* ara, Vishwa Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka.
The first Test will be played at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from August 15 to 19. The two-match series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.
India, led by Shubman Gill, are currently fifth in the World Test Championship standings. They have recorded four wins and four losses in nine matches, with a Points Percentage (PCT) of 48.150.
Sri Lanka are sixth in the standings, having registered one win, one draw and two defeats.
With home conditions expected to play a role in the series, Sri Lanka will look to their experienced players, including Chandimal and the returning ******* wella, as they prepare to take on India's Test side.
Sri Lanka squad: Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Kamindu Mendis (vc), Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan ******* wella (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru ******* ara, Vishwa Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.
#fernando
Dhananjaya de Silva will captain the team, while Kamindu Mendis has been named his deputy. ******* wella has been included as the wicketkeeper after Kusal Mendis was ruled out of the first Test with an injury.
Batter Pathum Nissanka has also been left out of the squad for the opening match.
Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Sonal Dinusha make up the rest of Sri Lanka's batting options.
The hosts have three specialist spinners in Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha. Their pace department includes Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru ******* ara, Vishwa Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka.
The first Test will be played at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from August 15 to 19. The two-match series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.
India, led by Shubman Gill, are currently fifth in the World Test Championship standings. They have recorded four wins and four losses in nine matches, with a Points Percentage (PCT) of 48.150.
Sri Lanka are sixth in the standings, having registered one win, one draw and two defeats.
With home conditions expected to play a role in the series, Sri Lanka will look to their experienced players, including Chandimal and the returning ******* wella, as they prepare to take on India's Test side.
Sri Lanka squad: Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Kamindu Mendis (vc), Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan ******* wella (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru ******* ara, Vishwa Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.
#fernando
3 months ago
NORTH SOUND, Antigua (AP) — Sri Lanka grew its lead to 281 runs in a bid to force an unlikely series-levelling victory against the West Indies on the fifth and final day of the second test on Tuesday.
Sri Lanka was 231-8 at lunch after adding a brisk 139 runs at a healthy rate of 5.79 an over in the morning session to its overnight score of 92-2.
Top-scorer Dinesh Chandimal led the visitors’ intent with 71 including four boundaries and two sixes before slicing a catch to backward point.
Captain Dhananjaya de Silva scored run-a-ball 34 and Sonal Dinusha hit 28 off 26 ****** as Sri Lanka pressed for quick runs against the spin of West Indies captain Roston Chase (1-41) and Kavem Hodge (1-23) despite losing six wickets in the session.
Alzarri Joseph had 2-44.
Sri Lanka was 231-8 at lunch after adding a brisk 139 runs at a healthy rate of 5.79 an over in the morning session to its overnight score of 92-2.
Top-scorer Dinesh Chandimal led the visitors’ intent with 71 including four boundaries and two sixes before slicing a catch to backward point.
Captain Dhananjaya de Silva scored run-a-ball 34 and Sonal Dinusha hit 28 off 26 ****** as Sri Lanka pressed for quick runs against the spin of West Indies captain Roston Chase (1-41) and Kavem Hodge (1-23) despite losing six wickets in the session.
Alzarri Joseph had 2-44.
3 months ago
NORTH SOUND, Antingua (AP) — Justin Greaves and Shai Hope compiled centuries and guided West Indies to 406-5 in reply to Sri Lanka’s 549-9 declared on the fourth morning of the second test on Monday.
Greaves was 131 not out at lunch beside captain Roston Chase on 8. The West Indies trailed by 143 runs.
The Sri Lanka bowlers continued to toil on a placid pitch and prised out only Hope, who was stumped on 112 in bizarre fashion close to lunch.
Hope tried to pad away left-arm spinner Sonal Dinusha’s length ball down the leg side but missed and in the process came out of his crease. Wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis couldn’t collect the ball cleanly but it ricocheted onto the stumps after hitting his gloves.
Hope hit 10 boundaries and dominated not only the pacers but also Prabath Jayasuriya by using his feet well against the spinner.
Greaves was 131 not out at lunch beside captain Roston Chase on 8. The West Indies trailed by 143 runs.
The Sri Lanka bowlers continued to toil on a placid pitch and prised out only Hope, who was stumped on 112 in bizarre fashion close to lunch.
Hope tried to pad away left-arm spinner Sonal Dinusha’s length ball down the leg side but missed and in the process came out of his crease. Wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis couldn’t collect the ball cleanly but it ricocheted onto the stumps after hitting his gloves.
Hope hit 10 boundaries and dominated not only the pacers but also Prabath Jayasuriya by using his feet well against the spinner.
3 months ago
NORTH SOUND, Antigua (AP) — Opening batter John Campbell struck his fourth test half century before falling to a short delivery as West Indies reached 132-2 at lunch on Day 3 of the second test, still trailing Sri Lanka by 417 runs on Sunday.
Campbell made 72 off 154 **** with nine fours and two sixes but holed out to mid-wicket close to lunch off Asitha Fernando's short ball to give Sri Lanka its breakthrough after West Indies had resumed on 58-1.
Kavem Hodge, who had plenty of dot **** and successfully overturned an lbw decision, stayed unbeaten on 25 off 114 **** with Amir Jangoo 8 not out at the interval.
West Indies, which has a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, trails heavily on a wicket which still looks perfect for batting and there's hardly any turn for Sri Lanka's premier spinner Prabath Jayasuriya.
Sri Lanka had gone past 500 for the first time in the West Indies when it declared at 549-9 after Lahiru Udara scored 188 while Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis and Sonal Dinusha also made half centuries.
Campbell made 72 off 154 **** with nine fours and two sixes but holed out to mid-wicket close to lunch off Asitha Fernando's short ball to give Sri Lanka its breakthrough after West Indies had resumed on 58-1.
Kavem Hodge, who had plenty of dot **** and successfully overturned an lbw decision, stayed unbeaten on 25 off 114 **** with Amir Jangoo 8 not out at the interval.
West Indies, which has a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, trails heavily on a wicket which still looks perfect for batting and there's hardly any turn for Sri Lanka's premier spinner Prabath Jayasuriya.
Sri Lanka had gone past 500 for the first time in the West Indies when it declared at 549-9 after Lahiru Udara scored 188 while Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis and Sonal Dinusha also made half centuries.
