Dhruv Jurel’s second Test century has put India firmly in control of the second World Test Championship match against Sri Lanka in Colombo.
India declared on 503/9 at the Sinhalese Sports Club after Jurel’s hundred drove a dominant first-innings performance. The wicketkeeper-batter’s innings was especially valuable because it converted India’s strong start into a total large enough to apply immediate pressure on Sri Lanka.
Rishabh Pant also played an important role early in the day, with the pair adding a century partnership. Jurel later credited Pant’s experience and guidance, saying he seeks the senior wicketkeeper’s advice whenever Pant is at the crease.
Sri Lanka’s reply began badly. India removed two home batters before stumps, leaving the hosts at 8/2 and facing a substantial deficit before the third day’s play.
The result is a sharp reversal from Sri Lanka’s position after the opening Test in Galle, where India won by 165 runs. Sri Lanka entered the Colombo match needing to level the series, but India’s declaration and late wickets have handed the visitors control of the match’s tempo.
Sri Lanka are also managing a depleted batting group. Head coach Kirsten previously confirmed injuries affecting Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka and Dinesh Chandimal, increasing the burden on the available top order.
India’s immediate objective is straightforward: finish the Sri Lankan innings quickly and force a follow-on or build a match-winning lead. At stumps, Jurel’s century and the late breakthrough had made that possibility increasingly realistic.
