India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test: Jadeja, Prasidh strike to take India close to win on Day 5
India is on the verge of victory in the first Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle on the final day. Ravindra Jadeja's bowling performance was pivotal in breaking key partnerships, leaving Sri Lanka struggling at 175 for six.
Why it matters
This match highlights the competitive nature of international cricket in the subcontinent and the tactical importance of spin bowling on abrasive pitches.
Ravindra Jadeja breached a stonewalling alliance between Sonal Dinusha and Dhananjaya de Silva, reducing Sri Lanka to 175 for six at lunch to push India closer to a victory on the fifth and final day of the first Test in Galle on Wednesday (August 19, 2026).
Chasing a distant 372, Dinusha (65) and Keshara Nuwantha (8) were holding the fort for Sri Lanka but the Indians will be hoping to wrap the proceedings at the earliest in the coming session.
Starting from a wobbly 84 for four, the end looked nigh for the home side. But Dinusha and De Silva (59 off 151 balls), the two overnight batters, added 95 runs off 202 balls to deny the Indians success for well over an hour into the opening session of the day.
Just like the Indian batters, sweep too was the Lankan pair's preferred way to tackle the spinners.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in