Suthar takes 2-17 as Sri Lanka slumps to 99-5 at lunch on Day 3 of 1st cricket test against India

Galle, Sri Lanka (AP) — In the third day of the first cricket test between India and Sri Lanka, Sonal Dinusha's maiden test century proved crucial as the home team ended their innings at 99-5 lunch on Monday. Dinusha's 100 off 168 balls, featuring four fours and two sixes, formed a vital partnership of 146 runs with Niroshan Dickwella, who added 80.

Despite India's strong early start, scoring 462 runs, the Indian bowlers started the day with promising deliveries from Mohammed Siraj and Manav Suthar. Suthar's first ball of the day had Dinesh Chandimal caught behind, and he continued his fine form by dismissing Niroshan Dickwella. Kuldeep Yadav also removed Kamindu Mendis, and Shubman Gill took a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Lahiru Udara.

With regular breakthroughs, India remained in a strong position, but Dinusha and Dickwella's partnership saw them through to the end of the second session without a loss for India. Prasidh Krishna managed to get the first breakthrough after tea after Dickwella, his efforts were not enough to reach his maiden test hundred. Despite India's regular scoring, Dinusha held her ground while Dickwella kept the scoreboard ticking over.

India's strong bowling continued with Jadeja removing debutant Keshara Nuwantha and trapped Dinusha lbw. The century hero, Dinusha, didn't reach her milestone off 167 balls. India continued to strike with Jadeja and Suthar taking crucial wickets, finishing the innings with 4-76 and 3-57 respectively. The day's play was ended early due to bad light, with India scoring two more runs to their overnight total of 460-9.