India sets 372-run target, Sri Lanka struggles at 84/4

India’s first Test at Galle is edging towards a decisive outcome. After posting 462 in the first innings, bolstered by a 162 partnership between Padikkal and Rahul, the visitors held a 178‑run lead.

Sri Lanka’s first‑innings effort of 284 featured a well‑timed hundred from Sonal Dinusha and a supportive 80 from Niroshan Dickwella. The hosts took four wickets each from Prabath Jayasuriya and Manish Suthar, but the deficit remained substantial.

In India’s second innings, the team was bowled out for 193, leaving Sri Lanka a target of 372 runs. Rishabh Pant’s 66 was the standout performance, while Padikkal added 44 and Rahul contributed 35. Asitha Fernando claimed four wickets for the Sri Lankan side.

Entering the final session, Sri Lanka could only muster 84 runs for the loss of four wickets. With a massive gap of 288 runs, the match is tilting heavily in India’s favor. The visitors need just six more wickets to clinch the game.