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India's captain Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja during the fifth day of the first Test cricket match between Sri Lanka and India (Img: IANS)
Galle: India produced a commanding performance in the first Test against Sri Lanka, defeating the hosts by 165 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The biggest highlight of the match was a sensational bowling display by left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, who claimed a memorable 10-wicket haul.
Suthar was the difference between the two sides, troubling Sri Lankan batters with his accuracy, variations and ability to extract turn from the Galle surface.
After taking four wickets in Sri Lanka’s first innings, Suthar returned in the second innings with an even more impressive spell. The young spinner picked up six wickets to complete his 10-wicket match haul and break Sri Lanka’s resistance.
Suthar’s final burst after the lunch break changed the momentum completely as he dismissed key batters in quick succession, leaving Sri Lanka unable to recover in their chase.
His performance became the centrepiece of India’s victory and established him as one of the emerging names in India’s spin department.
Chasing a challenging target of 372 runs, Sri Lanka showed some resistance through captain Dhananjaya de Silva and Sonal Dinusha.
De Silva scored a fighting half-century, while Dinusha also battled hard and brought up a valuable fifty. Their partnership briefly frustrated the Indian bowling attack and raised hopes of a possible comeback.
However, India kept applying pressure through their experienced bowlers. Ravindra Jadeja provided an important breakthrough by dismissing Dhananjaya de Silva, while Prasidh Krishna removed Niroshan Dickwella.
After that, Suthar took control and wrapped up Sri Lanka’s innings.
Earlier in the match, India’s batters posted a competitive total and built the foundation for victory. The bowlers then capitalised on the conditions, with the spin attack playing a decisive role.
The Galle Test also witnessed strong contributions from senior players, including Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, who maintained pressure from both ends.
With this comprehensive 165-run victory, India have gained a crucial advantage in the two-match Test series. Manav Suthar’s historic 10-wicket performance will remain the biggest talking point from the Galle Test as India continue their push for dominance in the longest format.
