Ravindra Jadeja's Heroics Propel India Towards Victory in Galle Test

In a gripping encounter in Galle, Ravindra Jadeja's outstanding bowling performance has put India on the brink of victory against Sri Lanka in the first Test. After reducing the hosts to 175 for six at lunch, Jadeja's efforts have been pivotal in dismantling the Sri Lankan batting order. Despite a resilient partnership between Sonal Dinusha and Dhananjaya de Silva, the Indian bowlers are eager to wrap up the match quickly. With a challenging target of 372 runs, the Sri Lankan team faces an uphill battle as they strive to avoid defeat. Discover how the match unfolds as India aims for a decisive win.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 19, 2026, 13:20 IST

India on the Brink of Victory in Galle Test

Galle: Ravindra Jadeja dismantled a resilient partnership between Sonal Dinusha and Dhananjaya de Silva, leaving Sri Lanka at 175 for six at lunch, as India edged closer to victory on the final day of the first Test in Galle on Wednesday.

With a daunting target of 372 runs, Dinusha (65) and Keshara Nuwantha (8) were attempting to stabilize the innings for Sri Lanka, but the Indian team aimed to conclude the match swiftly in the upcoming session.

After starting the day precariously at 84 for four, the home team faced a challenging situation.

Dinusha and De Silva (59 off 151 balls) formed a crucial partnership, adding 95 runs off 202 balls, frustrating the Indian bowlers for over an hour in the morning session.

Similar to their Indian counterparts, the Sri Lankan duo favored the sweep shot to counter the spinners.

Jadeja stood out as the most effective Indian spinner, demonstrating excellent control and extracting significant turn from the pitch.

Although Manav Suthar bowled limited overs, he appeared sharp, while left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav struggled to find his rhythm on the abrasive surface, needing to enhance his performance.

It was surprising to see him not fully engaged, as his around-the-wicket approach limited his leg-before wicket opportunities.

Despite the pressure from the Indian bowlers, De Silva reached his fifty off 125 balls, shortly followed by Dinusha, who had scored a century in the first innings.

Dinusha celebrated his milestone with a spectacular slog-swept six off Kuldeep.

However, Jadeja eventually broke through, outsmarting De Silva with extra bounce, leading to a top-edged sweep that was caught by Suthar at short fine leg.

Niroshan Dickwella, who had played a composed innings in Sri Lanka's first innings, seemed eager to accelerate the scoring.

He attempted several aggressive slog sweeps against Kuldeep and Jadeja before falling to pacer Prasidh Krishna.

Dickwella tried to create space for a shot over covers off Prasidh but only managed to edge the ball to Rishabh Pant behind the stumps.

Nevertheless, Dinusha and Nuwantha held their ground for the next 30 minutes, showing both determination and a bit of fortune.