For first time against India, Sri Lanka do the unthinkable in Colombo

In a remarkable turn of events, Sri Lanka managed to defy their long-standing follow-on jinx against India for the very first time in their history. This unprecedented feat occurred during the second Test match held in Colombo, marking only the fourth instance in cricket history where a team has successfully saved a Test after being forced to follow on.

After being compelled to follow on, Sri Lanka faced a daunting task of chasing down a substantial 213-run deficit. However, the hosts fought back brilliantly, ultimately emerging victorious and securing a draw in the match. Consequently, India completed a series win, claiming the two-match series 1-0.

The turning point of the game came from Sri Lanka's Sonal Dinusha, who led the resistance with an unbeaten innings of 133 runs. The talented batsman was supported by Keshara Nuwantha, who scored 46 runs. Together, the duo added 112 runs for the seventh wicket, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka's turnaround.

This remarkable achievement is only the fourth time in cricket history where Sri Lanka has saved a Test after being asked to follow on. The previous instances include victories against Zimbabwe (Bulawayo, 1994), England (Lord's, 2006), and the West Indies (Galle, 2010). Dinusha's performance was instrumental in his contribution, as he also achieved the rare feat of scoring centuries in both innings of a Test while following on.

His unbeaten 133 runs took his tally to three centuries in the two-Test series, placing him alongside cricket legends Vijay Hazare and Andy Flower.