India took firm control of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo after Dhruv Jurel’s composed century and Rishabh Pant’s aggressive half-century lifted the visitors to 503/9 declared on a rain-interrupted Day 2.
Jurel anchored India’s lower order with an unbeaten 101, reaching his second Test hundred after a tense wait in the nineties. The wicketkeeper-batter was stranded on 95 when rain forced an early tea break and later spent eight deliveries on 99 before completing the milestone with a single. He became only the second Indian batter to score a Test century from No. 7 or lower in Sri Lanka, after Hardik Pandya.
Pant, who had retired hurt on Day 1 after being struck on the wrist, returned without showing any hesitation. He counterattacked Sri Lanka’s bowlers and scored 63 off 89 balls, using an array of aggressive strokes to accelerate India’s innings. His partnership with Jurel pushed the visitors towards a commanding total before he was dismissed attempting another attacking shot.
India eventually declared at 503/9, choosing to give their bowlers time to attack Sri Lanka before the close of play. The decision paid immediate dividends despite rain interruptions and fading light.
Prasidh Krishna struck with just his second delivery when Lahiru Udara edged to third slip, where Yashasvi Jaiswal completed a sharp diving catch. With poor light limiting India’s pace options later in the day, Manav Suthar adapted quickly and trapped nightwatchman Prabath Jayasuriya lbw.
Sri Lanka finished the day at 8/2, facing a massive deficit after India’s dominant batting display. Jurel’s patience and Pant’s attacking approach had set the platform, while India’s bowlers ensured the pressure continued late into the evening.
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