Kamindu Mendis and Pasindu Sooriyabandara spearheaded a vital Sri Lanka fightback after the follow-on. The match had been in trouble after India put up a huge total. Day four saw them keep India at bay. They showed great grit. Together they reached 199 for three at tea. Sooriyabandara stayed not out on 90. Mendis joined Sooriyabandara and constructed a solid partnership.
Sri Lanka Cricket hopes to play additional test matches. The board is campaigning to add games against India, England and Australia. They are persistently seeking these crucial fixtures.