India’s Dhruv Jurel missed out on a chance to complete his century as heavy rain interrupted play during Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club.
Jurel remained unbeaten on 95 off 155 balls, with India reaching 475/8 in 131.2 overs before worsening weather conditions forced the umpires to stop play and call an early tea.
Jurel Leads India’s Lower-Order Fightback
Jurel played a composed innings and continued to build India’s first-innings total after the team lost wickets at regular intervals.
He initially shared a crucial partnership with Rishabh Pant, who scored 63. Pant and Jurel added 112 runs before Pant was dismissed immediately after lunch.
Jurel then found a reliable partner in Manav Suthar. The pair added 54 runs for the eighth wicket before Suthar was dismissed for 18.
Five Runs Away From a Century
Jurel reached 95 not out, leaving him just five runs short of his second Test century. His innings included several controlled strokes against Sri Lanka’s spinners and pacers.
With Mohammed Siraj at the other end, Jurel was looking to guide India towards the 500-run mark when dark clouds gathered over Colombo.
Rain Brings Play to a Halt
Strong winds and dark skies forced the umpires to suspend play. Heavy rain intensified soon after, with ground staff covering the entire playing area.
At the interruption, India were 475/8, with Jurel on 95 and Mohammed Siraj yet to open his account.
India in Strong Position
India started Day 2 at 300/5 and continued to strengthen their position during the morning session. Devdutt Padikkal had earlier scored a century, making 117 in India’s first innings.
Sri Lanka’s Asitha Fernando was the pick of the bowlers, taking four wickets for 78 runs.
