The second Test between Sri Lanka and India is heading towards an exciting finish in Colombo. India is close to victory after putting Sri Lanka under pressure across both innings.
The visitors scored 503 for nine before declaring, with hundreds from Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel, while Rishabh Pant added quick runs. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 290 in the first innings, forcing them to follow on. The hosts showed more fight in their second innings and ended Day 4 with a 16-run lead. India now need only four wickets, but rain could still affect the result.
Will India wrap up Sri Lanka early on Day 5?
India will begin Day 5 with one clear target: take the remaining four Sri Lankan wickets as quickly as possible.
The visitors have been in control for much of the Test. After taking a big lead in the first innings, India enforced the follow-on and put Sri Lanka under more pressure. However, the home side showed better batting in the second innings and managed to move into a 16-run lead.
If India can pick up the four wickets early, they will then have to chase the target. A quick finish would also reduce the threat from rain.
When is rain expected in Colombo on Day 5?
Rain could once again be a major concern in Colombo on Thursday, August 27. According to the AccuWeather forecast, the weather is expected to be cloudy around 9 am, while showers could arrive during the following few hours. This means the morning session could face interruptions.
The afternoon may also bring more rain. Conditions are expected to remain cloudy when the session starts, but showers could return later in the day.
Can rain affect India’s chances of winning?
Yes, especially if India do not take the four wickets early. Rain has already caused problems during the Test. Both Day 3 and Day 4 ended earlier than planned because of wet weather. Another day with long delays could reduce the number of overs available to both teams.
Sri Lanka vs India 2nd Test Day 5 weather report of Colombo. Image Credit-Accu Weather
There could be some relief around 5 pm, but rain is still expected in the evening period. India will therefore want to make the most of every over available in the morning.
How will the weather conditions be in Colombo on Day 5?
Colombo is expected to be very humid on Day 5, with humidity reaching around 84 percent during the day.
Cloudy skies, high humidity, and rain could make conditions difficult for the players. Any heavy shower could also leave the outfield wet and lead to another delay before play can restart.
For India, an early breakthrough could be the key to avoiding a long wait caused by the weather.
Why is a win important for India?
India need a win in Colombo to strengthen their chances of reaching the World Test Championship final next year. With only four wickets left to take, India remain in a strong position. However, the weather could still play a big part in the final result. If the visitors bowl Sri Lanka out early, they could have enough time to chase the target and finish the Test. If rain keeps interrupting play, the hosts could get the extra time they need to save the match.