Colombo, Aug 24 (IANS) Day two’s play in the second Test between India and Sri Lanka is set to resume at 4:25 pm local time following a lengthy weather disruption that forced an early tea break at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground on Monday.
Threatening dark skies and the initial droplets of rain prompted the umpires to call for an early tea with India positioned strongly at 475/8 in 131.2 overs, with wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel unbeaten on 95 and five runs short of completing his second Test century and first in Sri Lankan conditions.
The ground staff acted swiftly to bring the covers on, as the rain intensified shortly after the players left the field. Although the heavy downpour temporarily eased, permitting the removal of pooled water, a secondary spell of rain delayed the restart further. Following a subsequent inspection by match officials under improving skies, the covers were completely taken off, clearing the way for play to resume and extend up to 6 pm.
Before the interruption, India dominated the second session despite losing two wickets on a surface showing signs of wear and spin. Jurel anchored the innings with a composed, risk-free display, moving serenely to 95 not out off 155 balls, studded with nine boundaries and putting the visitors firmly in control of the proceedings.
In parallel developments during the rain delay, match officials confirmed disciplinary action against left-handed India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando following their heated on-field exchange on day one. Both players were fined 25 per cent of their respective match fees and handed one demerit point each after being found guilty of inappropriate physical contact.
Brief Scores: India 475/8 in 131.2 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 117, Dhruv Jurel 95 not out; Asitha Fernando 4-78, Keshara Nuwantha 2-154) against Sri Lanka
–IANS
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