India could have gone into the break in an even stronger position but for a mix-up between Jaiswal and Rahul.
Jaiswal lost his balance after a collision with the bowler, leading to confusion between the two batters. Both ended up at the non-striker’s end, and Jaiswal eventually had to walk back after scoring 32 off 37 balls.
It was an unfortunate end to an innings in which Jaiswal had looked comfortable.
The dismissal did little to slow India’s scoring. The visitors continued to score at around four runs an over. Rahul had a slightly uneasy start, especially against pacer Lahiru Kumara. He was beaten once and also edged a delivery that fell short of the gully fielder.
However, Rahul soon grew in confidence. He pulled Kumara for a boundary and then took on Sri Lanka’s spin attack.
Sri Lanka introduced experienced left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya in an attempt to bring some control to the innings. But India’s batters did not allow him to settle.
Padikkal, who looked in good touch, stepped down the track and hit Jayasuriya for a six over long-on. Rahul followed with a maximum straight over Jayasuriya’s head and then hit another boundary in the same direction.
