Shubman Gill produced one of the standout moments of India’s second Test against Sri Lanka with a stunning running catch to dismiss Kamindu Mendis for 55 in Colombo.
The breakthrough came when Prasidh Krishna went short, with Mendis attempting to pull the delivery. The shot did not come off the middle of the bat and the ball flew towards the square-leg region. Gill, positioned in the field, immediately turned and sprinted backwards before completing an excellent catch while on the move.
The catch ended a crucial 115-run third-wicket partnership between Mendis and Pasindu Sooriyabandara, which had threatened to take Sri Lanka out of trouble after India enforced the follow-on. Mendis had played a positive innings, scoring 55 from 92 balls, including three sixes and two fours, while Sooriyabandara continued to anchor the resistance. Krishna’s short-ball plan eventually produced the breakthrough, with Gill’s athletic effort ensuring the opportunity was not wasted. The dismissal proved important as India regained momentum in the final session. Sri Lanka eventually ended Day 4 on 229/6, holding a narrow 16-run lead, with rain bringing play to an early close.
India tighten grip as Sri Lanka reach 229/6 after follow-on in second Test in Colombo
The second Test between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo took another decisive turn on Day 4 as the hosts were left struggling at 229/6 in their second innings after being forced to follow on. India had earlier declared at 503/9 and then bowled Sri Lanka out for 290, securing a 213-run first-innings lead. Sri Lanka showed far greater resistance in their second innings, with Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Kamindu Mendis putting together a crucial 115-run partnership. Sooriyabandara made 92, while Mendis scored 55 off 92 balls.
India eventually regained control in the final session, with Prasidh Krishna breaking the partnership by dismissing Mendis, who was caught brilliantly by captain Shubman Gill. Manav Suthar then struck twice, removing Sooriyabandara and captain Dhananjaya de Silva, before Saransh Jain dismissed Niroshan Dickwella. The late wickets left Sri Lanka with only four wickets in hand and a lead of just 16 runs. Rain and bad light then brought play to an early end at 4:37 pm, leaving India in a strong position to wrap up the Test and seal the series on the final day.