The first test match of the series between India and Srilanka in Eden Gardens Kolkata ended in a thrilling draw as India nearly pulled out an improbable win in the final day of the match.
India declared at 352/8 in their second innings setting a target of 231 runs for Srilanka to chase down. Skipper Virat Kohli compelted his 50th International century as he remained unbeaten on 104 runs off 119 balls with 12 fours and 2 sixes.
The Indian pacers were all over the Srilankan batting line up as Srilanka were struggling to save the test match at 22-4 in their second innings. Bhuvneswor Kumar picked up 4 wickets giving away just 8 runs from his 11 overs while Mohammad Shami picked up 2 wickets for 34 runs. Dinesh Chandimal (20) and Niroshan Dickwella (27) were the only batsmen for Srilanka amongst the runs as Srilanka finished at 75/7 at the end of fifth day of the match.
Bhuvneswor Kumar was named Man of the Match for his 8 wickets in the match. After the match Bhuvneswor said“Frankly speaking, it was tougher to bowl in the second innings as the surface was a lot drier. But the ball was reversing, so that helped. When I made my debut, I was totally dependent on swing. International circuit tells you what you need to improve on. I worked hard on my fitness and that is paying off. We believed we could win. Virat said ‘Imagine we’re in this situation overseas. If we get two-three wickets early, it won’t be easy for them.”
Match Summary:
Sri Lanka 294 (Herath 67, Mathews 52, Thirimanne 51, Bhuvneshwar 4-88, Shami 4-100) and 75 for 7 (Bhuvneshwar 4-8)
drew with
India 172 (Pujara 52, Lakmal 4-26) and 352 for 8 dec. (Kohli 104*, Dhawan 94, Rahul 79, Shanaka 3-76, Lakmal 3-93)