The Indian women's team dominated from start to finish, with both the bat and ball, to hammer Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the second ODI and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Monday. It is worth mentioning that the Indian team's openers fired for the first time on the tour, sharing a partnership of 174 runs to see the visitors home in just 25.4 overs and finally managing to silence their detractors after being pilloried for their below-par show.

It is the highest target successfully chased without losing a wicket in women's ODIs. The bowlers set it up for the tourists by dismissing Sri Lanka for 173, and after that, Smriti Mandhana's stroke-filled 94 off 83 balls and Shafali Verma's run-a-ball 71 paved the way for the convincing win.

The experienced Mandhana struck 11 boundaries and a six in her blazing knock, while Verma found the fence four times and cleared it once. After having won the first ODI comfortably, the Indians came into the second game as firm favourites against a wobbly Sri Lankan side. Adding to the visitors confidence was the fact that they also triumphed in the preceding three-match T20I series.

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After winning the toss, Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur asked Sri Lanka to bat first on a surface in favourable conditions for the bowlers. The hosts soon found themselves in all sorts of trouble as pacer Renuka Singh was on point with her lengths from the word go.

The 26-year-old reigned supreme with the ball, with a career-best 4 for 28, rattling the Sri Lankan top-order with three quick strikes. Even as wickets fell at regular intervals, lower-order batter Ama Kanchana held fort for the hosts with an unbeaten 47 off 83 balls. Seasoned off-spinner Deepti Sharma's two wickets off the last two balls helped India bowl out the Lankans.

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"We have been talking about long partnerships. We discussed that we need to give 100 percent. The partnership was outstanding. It is important to have bowling options," Harmanpreet said after the game.

India won the first ODI by four wickets and will look to complete a 3-0 sweep when they meet the home team in the final match on Thursday.

The Indian women's team dominated from start to finish, with both the bat and ball, to hammer Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the second ODI and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Monday.

The Indian women's team dominated from start to finish, with both the bat and ball, to hammer Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the second ODI and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Monday. It is worth mentioning that the Indian team's openers fired for the first time on the tour, sharing a partnership of 174 runs to see the visitors home in just 25.4 overs and finally managing to silence their detractors after being pilloried for their below-par show. It is the highest target successfully chased without losing a wicket in women's ODIs. The bowlers set it up for the tourists by dismissing Sri Lanka for 173, and after that, Smriti Mandhana's stroke-filled 94 off 83 balls and Shafali Verma's run-a-ball 71 paved the way for the convincing win. The experienced Mandhana struck 11 boundaries and a six in her blazing knock, while Verma found the fence four times and cleared it once. After having won the first ODI comfortably, the Indians came into the second game as firm favourites against a wobbly Sri Lankan side. Adding to the visitors confidence was the fact that they also triumphed in the preceding three-match T20I series. Also Read: WATCH - England coach McCullum sends short-ball signal to bowlers, plots Iyer's dismissal in 5th Test After winning the toss, Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur asked Sri Lanka to bat first on a surface in favourable conditions for the bowlers. The hosts soon found themselves in all sorts of trouble as pacer Renuka Singh was on point with her lengths from the word go. The 26-year-old reigned supreme with the ball, with a career-best 4 for 28, rattling the Sri Lankan top-order with three quick strikes. Even as wickets fell at regular intervals, lower-order batter Ama Kanchana held fort for the hosts with an unbeaten 47 off 83 balls. Seasoned off-spinner Deepti Sharma's two wickets off the last two balls helped India bowl out the Lankans. Also Read: Pant breaks 72-year-old record with terrific knocks in Edgbaston Test against England "We have been talking about long partnerships. We discussed that we need to give 100 percent. The partnership was outstanding. It is important to have bowling options," Harmanpreet said after the game. India won the first ODI by four wickets and will look to complete a 3-0 sweep when they meet the home team in the final match on Thursday.

Mandhana, Verma fire as all-round India thrash Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in 2nd ODI to seal series

After winning the three T20Is, 2-1, Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women have started the ODI leg with a win at the iconic Pallekele International Stadium, Pallekele on Friday (July 01). It was a low-scoring affair where the Islanders pushed India a bit, during the run-chase, before Deepti Sharma's all-round blitz took the team past the finish line.

Opting to bat first, the&nbsp;Chamari Athapaththu-led Islanders weren't off to a great start and lost half of their side for 84.&nbsp;Nilakshi de Silva's 43 and Harshitha Madavi's 28 managed to propel the Sri Lankans past the 150-run mark. Eventually, the hosts managed only 171 all-out in 48.2 overs.&nbsp;Deepti and Renuka Singh shared three scalps each whereas fast-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar returned with 2 for 26.&nbsp;

In reply, India lost opener Smriti Mandhara early (4) and Yastika Bhatia (1) also followed suit. Shafali Verma's 40-ball 35 took India ahead before they were reduced to 61 for 3 as the chase became tricky. Skipper Harmanpreet (44), Harleen Deol (34) and Deepti's 22 rescued India as they were on course to chase down the paltry total.&nbsp;Inoka Ranaweera's 4 for 39 and&nbsp;Oshadi Ranasinghe's 2 for 34 stretched India in the second innings but the lack of runs cost the Lankans. Eventually, India chased down the total in 38 overs (176/6).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-end-his-century-drought-in-one-off-test-vs-england-former-indian-opener-gives-his-verdict-493594">Will Virat Kohli end his century-drought in one-off Test vs England? Former Indian opener gives his verdict</a>

In the post-match presentation, Deepti said, "I can bat at every number. We need to focus on partnerships and that's we did. It is not an easy wicket to bat on. We need to watch till the end. Pooja is a hard hitter. She did well."

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Meanwhile, Harmanpreet opined, "Enjoying myself. When you keep getting runs, you feel you are in good form. We need to work on the partnerships. We will look to do well. I love to give chances. Harleen bowled well. So did Shafali. Would hope they do well in future as well. The Lankan bowlers didn't give us easy runs."

After winning the three T20Is, 2-1, Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women have started the ODI leg with a win at the iconic Pallekele International Stadium, Pallekele on Friday (July 01).

After winning the three T20Is, 2-1, Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women have started the ODI leg with a win at the iconic Pallekele International Stadium, Pallekele on Friday (July 01). It was a low-scoring affair where the Islanders pushed India a bit, during the run-chase, before Deepti Sharma's all-round blitz took the team past the finish line. Opting to bat first, the Chamari Athapaththu-led Islanders weren't off to a great start and lost half of their side for 84. Nilakshi de Silva's 43 and Harshitha Madavi's 28 managed to propel the Sri Lankans past the 150-run mark. Eventually, the hosts managed only 171 all-out in 48.2 overs. Deepti and Renuka Singh shared three scalps each whereas fast-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar returned with 2 for 26. In reply, India lost opener Smriti Mandhara early (4) and Yastika Bhatia (1) also followed suit. Shafali Verma's 40-ball 35 took India ahead before they were reduced to 61 for 3 as the chase became tricky. Skipper Harmanpreet (44), Harleen Deol (34) and Deepti's 22 rescued India as they were on course to chase down the paltry total. Inoka Ranaweera's 4 for 39 and Oshadi Ranasinghe's 2 for 34 stretched India in the second innings but the lack of runs cost the Lankans. Eventually, India chased down the total in 38 overs (176/6). ALSO READ | Will Virat Kohli end his century-drought in one-off Test vs England? Former Indian opener gives his verdict In the post-match presentation, Deepti said, "I can bat at every number. We need to focus on partnerships and that's we did. It is not an easy wicket to bat on. We need to watch till the end. Pooja is a hard hitter. She did well." Meanwhile, Harmanpreet opined, "Enjoying myself. When you keep getting runs, you feel you are in good form. We need to work on the partnerships. We will look to do well. I love to give chances. Harleen bowled well. So did Shafali. Would hope they do well in future as well. The Lankan bowlers didn't give us easy runs."

SL-W vs IND-W: Deepti Sharma's all-round blitz takes India to 4-wicket win over Islanders in 1st ODI

There was finally something to cheer for Sri Lanka as their captain Chamari Athapaththu slammed an unbeaten 80 to help her side register a thumping-seven wicket win over India in the third and final T20I match of the series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium here on Monday. Sri Lanka`s strong performance came a little late as they have already lost the series 2-1 to India.

Chasing 139, Sri Lanka was not off the most ideal start, losing opener Vishmi Gunaratne for five at the end of the first over with captain Harmanpreet Kaur taking a good catch. Captain Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Madavi tried to stabilise the innings and their 31-run partnership was broker by Radha Yadav. Madavi was out on 13 off 14 balls after Mandhana took a catch at deep mid-wicket. This brought Nilakshi de Silva to the crease. She along with Athapaththu attacked the Indian bowlers to attack, with the captain looking good in particular. The duo brought up a 50-run stand with a four in the 12th over. On the very next ball, captain Athapaththu slammed medium-pacer Simran Bahadur for another four, bringing up her half-century. The partnership was broken after Silva was run out for 30 off 28 balls.

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This also ended the 77-run partnership between her and Athapaththu. Kavisha Dilhari was the next on the crease. She and her captain took Sri Lanka to the target, finishing at 141/3 in 17 overs, with Chamari Athapaththu remaining unbeaten at 80 and Dilhari on 7. Renuka Singh was the leading bowler for India with figures of 1/27 in four overs. Radha Yadav also took a wicket.

Earlier after choosing to bat first, solid knocks from captain Harmanpreet Kaur (39*) and Jemimah Rodrigues (33) took India to 138/5 at the end of 20 overs during the final T20I against Sri Lanka. Opener Shafali Verma (5) fell cheaply to spinner Sugandika Kumari. It was then that a solid 43-run stand between opener Smriti Mandhana and Sabbhineni Meghana stabilised the innings a bit for India. Medium-pacer Oshadi Ranasinghe and spinner Inoka Ranaweera took wickets of Mandhana and Meghana respectively reducing India to 51/3. From then onwards, captain Kaur and Rodrigues put a solid 65-run stand. The duo maintained some solid strike rotation and hit some boundaries occasionally. Medium-pacer Ama Kanchana ended the stand, dismissing Rodrigues for 33. Kaur then took the innings forward with Pooja Vastrakar, who was run out on the final ball of the Indian innings. Kaur finished at 39*, while India finished at 138/5 in their 20 overs.

Brief Scores: India 138/5 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 39*, Jemimah Rodrigues 33, O Ranasinghe 1/13) lost to Sri Lanka 141/3 in 17 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 80*, Nilakshi de Silva 30, Renuka Singh 1/27) by seven wickets.&nbsp;

There was finally something to cheer for Sri Lanka as their captain Chamari Athapaththu slammed an unbeaten 80 to help her side register a thumping-seven wicket win over India in the third and final T20I match of the series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium here on Monday.

There was finally something to cheer for Sri Lanka as their captain Chamari Athapaththu slammed an unbeaten 80 to help her side register a thumping-seven wicket win over India in the third and final T20I match of the series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium here on Monday. Sri Lanka`s strong performance came a little late as they have already lost the series 2-1 to India. Chasing 139, Sri Lanka was not off the most ideal start, losing opener Vishmi Gunaratne for five at the end of the first over with captain Harmanpreet Kaur taking a good catch. Captain Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Madavi tried to stabilise the innings and their 31-run partnership was broker by Radha Yadav. Madavi was out on 13 off 14 balls after Mandhana took a catch at deep mid-wicket. This brought Nilakshi de Silva to the crease. She along with Athapaththu attacked the Indian bowlers to attack, with the captain looking good in particular. The duo brought up a 50-run stand with a four in the 12th over. On the very next ball, captain Athapaththu slammed medium-pacer Simran Bahadur for another four, bringing up her half-century. The partnership was broken after Silva was run out for 30 off 28 balls. ALSO READ | England's all-out approach results in series whitewash over New Zealand, win 3rd Test by 7 wickets This also ended the 77-run partnership between her and Athapaththu. Kavisha Dilhari was the next on the crease. She and her captain took Sri Lanka to the target, finishing at 141/3 in 17 overs, with Chamari Athapaththu remaining unbeaten at 80 and Dilhari on 7. Renuka Singh was the leading bowler for India with figures of 1/27 in four overs. Radha Yadav also took a wicket. Earlier after choosing to bat first, solid knocks from captain Harmanpreet Kaur (39*) and Jemimah Rodrigues (33) took India to 138/5 at the end of 20 overs during the final T20I against Sri Lanka. Opener Shafali Verma (5) fell cheaply to spinner Sugandika Kumari. It was then that a solid 43-run stand between opener Smriti Mandhana and Sabbhineni Meghana stabilised the innings a bit for India. Medium-pacer Oshadi Ranasinghe and spinner Inoka Ranaweera took wickets of Mandhana and Meghana respectively reducing India to 51/3. From then onwards, captain Kaur and Rodrigues put a solid 65-run stand. The duo maintained some solid strike rotation and hit some boundaries occasionally. Medium-pacer Ama Kanchana ended the stand, dismissing Rodrigues for 33. Kaur then took the innings forward with Pooja Vastrakar, who was run out on the final ball of the Indian innings. Kaur finished at 39*, while India finished at 138/5 in their 20 overs. Brief Scores: India 138/5 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 39*, Jemimah Rodrigues 33, O Ranasinghe 1/13) lost to Sri Lanka 141/3 in 17 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 80*, Nilakshi de Silva 30, Renuka Singh 1/27) by seven wickets.

Ind-W vs SL-W: Chamari Athapaththu's 80 guides SL to consolation win, prevents India from series whitewash

Star India opener Smriti Mandhana hailed her side's bowling unit for getting the job done as they clinched the three-match Women's T20 International series against Sri Lanka with a five-wicket win in the second match here on Saturday.

India dished out an impressive bowling display in both spin and pace departments, choking Sri Lanka to a paltry 125/7 after the home side were 87 for no loss inside 14 overs. In reply, India overcame some early hiccups to secure the series-clinching win and take an unassailable 2-0 lead.

"They (bowlers) did a really good job today and also in the last match to defend 139," Mandhana said at the post-match press conference.

The Indian bowlers struggled to get a breakthrough early on as the Sri Lankan opening duo of skipper Chamari Athapaththu (43) and Vishmi Gunaratne (45) gave them a solid start.

"We didn't have to tell them much. It was just about following our game plan as a bowling unit and sticking to it. We knew one or two wickets here and there will get us back in the game.

"Our bowlers were really patient with it. Definitely, we leaked a few runs with some misfields here and there but I'm sure we will come back stronger."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-petrol-but-still-came-to-see-sri-lankan-fans-banner-for-indias-smriti-mandhana-goes-viral-in-2nd-t20i-491793">'No petrol but still came to see': Sri Lankan fan's banner for India's Smriti Mandhana goes viral in 2nd T20I</a>

The Romesh Powar-coached team has left out the likes of Jhulan Goswami, Shikha Pandey and Sneh Rana, and fielded the likes of Pooja Vastrakar, Renuka Singh, Simran Bahadur and Meghna Singh. The Indian spin attack, on the other hand, had the likes of Deepti Sharma, Poonam Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Radha Yadav.

During her knock of 34-ball 39, Mandhana became the second-fastest Indian woman to score 2,000 runs T20I runs. She reached the feat in her 84th innings, becoming the third Indian woman after the legendary Mithali Raj (70 innings) and current skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (88 innings) to cross the mark.

Mandhana and her opening partner Shafali Verma got off to a flier and the left-hander said it was about backing their strengths.

"Me and Shafali had a game plan going today. We knew which bowlers to target, we know each other's strengths and weaknesses, it was about our strengths," she said.

"Later on after the power-play, it was more about singles and doubles and not whom to attack as we had only 126 to get. It was about rotating strike and dealing in one and twos."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-confronts-fan-for-making-fun-of-young-kamlesh-nagarkoti-during-indias-warm-up-match-491741">WATCH -&nbsp;Kohli confronts fan for making fun of young Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's warm-up match</a>

After the departure of Mandhana, India stuttered in the middle overs but skipper Harmanpreet Kaur anchored the chase with an unbeaten 31 from 32 deliveries. Mandhana said the wicket was difficult to bat on.

"It was keeping a bit low, and of course it was on the slower side. So it wasn't an easy pitch to bat on. You had to really work hard on your runs but once you get used to the pace and bounce of the wicket, runs came in," she concluded.

The final match of the T20I series is slated on Monday, before the three-match ODI series begins at Pallekele on July 1. 
&nbsp;

Star India opener Smriti Mandhana hailed her side's bowling unit for getting the job done as they clinched the three-match Women's T20 International series against Sri Lanka with a five-wicket win in the second match here on Saturday.

Star India opener Smriti Mandhana hailed her side's bowling unit for getting the job done as they clinched the three-match Women's T20 International series against Sri Lanka with a five-wicket win in the second match here on Saturday. India dished out an impressive bowling display in both spin and pace departments, choking Sri Lanka to a paltry 125/7 after the home side were 87 for no loss inside 14 overs. In reply, India overcame some early hiccups to secure the series-clinching win and take an unassailable 2-0 lead. "They (bowlers) did a really good job today and also in the last match to defend 139," Mandhana said at the post-match press conference. The Indian bowlers struggled to get a breakthrough early on as the Sri Lankan opening duo of skipper Chamari Athapaththu (43) and Vishmi Gunaratne (45) gave them a solid start. "We didn't have to tell them much. It was just about following our game plan as a bowling unit and sticking to it. We knew one or two wickets here and there will get us back in the game. "Our bowlers were really patient with it. Definitely, we leaked a few runs with some misfields here and there but I'm sure we will come back stronger." Also Read: 'No petrol but still came to see': Sri Lankan fan's banner for India's Smriti Mandhana goes viral in 2nd T20I The Romesh Powar-coached team has left out the likes of Jhulan Goswami, Shikha Pandey and Sneh Rana, and fielded the likes of Pooja Vastrakar, Renuka Singh, Simran Bahadur and Meghna Singh. The Indian spin attack, on the other hand, had the likes of Deepti Sharma, Poonam Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Radha Yadav. During her knock of 34-ball 39, Mandhana became the second-fastest Indian woman to score 2,000 runs T20I runs. She reached the feat in her 84th innings, becoming the third Indian woman after the legendary Mithali Raj (70 innings) and current skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (88 innings) to cross the mark. Mandhana and her opening partner Shafali Verma got off to a flier and the left-hander said it was about backing their strengths. "Me and Shafali had a game plan going today. We knew which bowlers to target, we know each other's strengths and weaknesses, it was about our strengths," she said. "Later on after the power-play, it was more about singles and doubles and not whom to attack as we had only 126 to get. It was about rotating strike and dealing in one and twos." Also Read: WATCH - Kohli confronts fan for making fun of young Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's warm-up match After the departure of Mandhana, India stuttered in the middle overs but skipper Harmanpreet Kaur anchored the chase with an unbeaten 31 from 32 deliveries. Mandhana said the wicket was difficult to bat on. "It was keeping a bit low, and of course it was on the slower side. So it wasn't an easy pitch to bat on. You had to really work hard on your runs but once you get used to the pace and bounce of the wicket, runs came in," she concluded. The final match of the T20I series is slated on Monday, before the three-match ODI series begins at Pallekele on July 1.

Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana star as India beat Sri Lanka by 5 wickets in 2nd T20I, seal series

Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team continued their winning run in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka women in Dambulla on Saturday (June 25). India defeated hosts Sri Lanka by 5 wickets in the second T20I to clinch the three-match series 2-0 with back-to-back wins in the first two games. India had earlier defeated Sri Lanka by 34 runs in the series-opener to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match rubber.

Indian opener Smriti Mandhana starred with the bat as India chased down the target of 126 runs with five balls to spare to register their second win on the trot. Mandhana was the top scorer for India with 39 runs off 34 balls laced with 8 fours. While her on-field heroics stole the show, a Sri Lankan fan's special banner for the Indian left-hander also went viral.

A Sri Lankan fan was spotted with a quirky message on a banner for Mandhana which read - "No Petrol but here to see Smriti Mandhana." The images of the Sri Lankan with the banner has gone viral on social media. Sri Lanka is currently dealing with one of the worst financial crises in its history and people are struggling due to a shortage of fuel, electricity and essential supplies.

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Smrithi Mandhana <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLWvINDW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLWvINDW</a> <a href="https://t.co/oqQKBZxm2n">pic.twitter.com/oqQKBZxm2n</a>
— Poorna Kavinda (@poorna_kavinda) <a href="https://twitter.com/poorna_kavinda/status/1540629196203913216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-confronts-fan-for-making-fun-of-young-kamlesh-nagarkoti-during-indias-warm-up-match-491741">WATCH -&nbsp;Kohli confronts fan for making fun of young Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's warm-up match</a>

Cricket has turned out to be the saviour for the people of Sri Lanka in the ongoing difficult times. Sri Lankan fans had earlier thronged the stadium in large numbers for the fifth and final T20I between Sri Lanka and Australia in Colombo on Friday. Some Sri Lankan fans had also thanked the Australian team for touring the nation by donning Australian jerseys and waving the Australian flag.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-generally-the-enemy-glenn-maxwell-left-in-awe-after-special-gesture-from-sri-lankan-fans-in-colombo-491623">'We are generally the enemy': Maxwell left in awe after special gesture from Sri Lankan fans in Colombo</a>

Talking about&nbsp;the Indian women's team's ongoing tour of Sri Lanka, it consists of three T20Is and as many ODIs. While all three T20I matches are scheduled to be played in Dambulla, the three ODIs will be played at the&nbsp;Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in&nbsp;Pallekele.

Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team continued their winning run in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka women in Dambulla on Saturday (June 25).

Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team continued their winning run in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka women in Dambulla on Saturday (June 25). India defeated hosts Sri Lanka by 5 wickets in the second T20I to clinch the three-match series 2-0 with back-to-back wins in the first two games. India had earlier defeated Sri Lanka by 34 runs in the series-opener to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match rubber. Indian opener Smriti Mandhana starred with the bat as India chased down the target of 126 runs with five balls to spare to register their second win on the trot. Mandhana was the top scorer for India with 39 runs off 34 balls laced with 8 fours. While her on-field heroics stole the show, a Sri Lankan fan's special banner for the Indian left-hander also went viral. A Sri Lankan fan was spotted with a quirky message on a banner for Mandhana which read - "No Petrol but here to see Smriti Mandhana." The images of the Sri Lankan with the banner has gone viral on social media. Sri Lanka is currently dealing with one of the worst financial crises in its history and people are struggling due to a shortage of fuel, electricity and essential supplies. Smrithi Mandhana #SLWvINDW pic.twitter.com/oqQKBZxm2n — Poorna Kavinda (@poorna_kavinda) June 25, 2022 × Also Read: WATCH - Kohli confronts fan for making fun of young Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's warm-up match Cricket has turned out to be the saviour for the people of Sri Lanka in the ongoing difficult times. Sri Lankan fans had earlier thronged the stadium in large numbers for the fifth and final T20I between Sri Lanka and Australia in Colombo on Friday. Some Sri Lankan fans had also thanked the Australian team for touring the nation by donning Australian jerseys and waving the Australian flag. Also Read: 'We are generally the enemy': Maxwell left in awe after special gesture from Sri Lankan fans in Colombo Talking about the Indian women's team's ongoing tour of Sri Lanka, it consists of three T20Is and as many ODIs. While all three T20I matches are scheduled to be played in Dambulla, the three ODIs will be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

'No petrol but still came to see': Sri Lankan fan's banner for India's Smriti Mandhana goes viral in 2nd T20I

Post Mithali Raj's international retirement, the Indian women's cricket team returned to the 22-yard cricket strip on Thursday (June 23). India started their Sri Lanka tour, with the three-match T20I series opener at the&nbsp;Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla. This was also their first-ever appearance on the pitch following the heartbreaking 2022 Women's World Cup exit, early this year.&nbsp;

In the first T20I, Harmanpreet &amp; Co. opted to bat first on a tricky surface. Despite losing Smriti Mandhana for 1, Shefali Verma provided some kind of a start for the visitors for a run-a-ball 31. From thereon, the onus fell on skipper Harman who contributed with a 20-ball 22. However, Jemimah Rodrigues -- on a comeback trail -- impressed the most as she was India's highest run-scorer (27-ball 36) whereas the likes of wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh, Deepti Sharma and fast-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar chipped in with handy runs down the order as India posted 138 for 6 in their full quota of overs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-leicestershire-rohit-sharma-cops-a-nasty-blow-on-the-box-off-jasprit-bumrah-watch-491025">India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah - WATCH</a>

In reply, Sri Lanka kept on losing wickets at regular intervals as their top order failed to seize the momentum.&nbsp;Kavisha Dilhari was the top-scorer of the match, returning with a 49-ball 47, however, none of the Lankan batter looked settled and, hence, struck at below 100. Only&nbsp;Ama Kanchana and Anushka Sanjeewani struck at slightly over 100 when the run-chase had already gone out of hand.

After the win, Player-of-the-Match Jemimah said at the post-match presentation, "The pitches are similar to back home in Mumbai and I just applied myself, played my natural game. I love this country and it is a privilege for us to come and play some cricket here. Lot of support from the crowd and Sri Lankan cricket board as well."

Harmanpreet-led India will face the hosts in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday (June 25) at the same venue with an aim to win the series.

Post Mithali Raj's international retirement, the Indian women's cricket team returned to the 22-yard cricket strip on Thursday (June 23). India started their Sri Lanka tour, with the three-match T20I series opener at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla.

Post Mithali Raj's international retirement, the Indian women's cricket team returned to the 22-yard cricket strip on Thursday (June 23). India started their Sri Lanka tour, with the three-match T20I series opener at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla. This was also their first-ever appearance on the pitch following the heartbreaking 2022 Women's World Cup exit, early this year. In the first T20I, Harmanpreet & Co. opted to bat first on a tricky surface. Despite losing Smriti Mandhana for 1, Shefali Verma provided some kind of a start for the visitors for a run-a-ball 31. From thereon, the onus fell on skipper Harman who contributed with a 20-ball 22. However, Jemimah Rodrigues -- on a comeback trail -- impressed the most as she was India's highest run-scorer (27-ball 36) whereas the likes of wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh, Deepti Sharma and fast-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar chipped in with handy runs down the order as India posted 138 for 6 in their full quota of overs. ALSO READ | India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah - WATCH In reply, Sri Lanka kept on losing wickets at regular intervals as their top order failed to seize the momentum. Kavisha Dilhari was the top-scorer of the match, returning with a 49-ball 47, however, none of the Lankan batter looked settled and, hence, struck at below 100. Only Ama Kanchana and Anushka Sanjeewani struck at slightly over 100 when the run-chase had already gone out of hand. After the win, Player-of-the-Match Jemimah said at the post-match presentation, "The pitches are similar to back home in Mumbai and I just applied myself, played my natural game. I love this country and it is a privilege for us to come and play some cricket here. Lot of support from the crowd and Sri Lankan cricket board as well." Harmanpreet-led India will face the hosts in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday (June 25) at the same venue with an aim to win the series.

Jemimah Rodrigues, Radha Yadav shine as India women beat Sri Lanka women to win 1st T20I by 34 runs

Virat Kohli is an extremely popular cricketer worldwide. Despite debuting in 2008, he remains the poster boy of Indian cricket and is a darling of the masses. Recently, the 33-year-old revealed an incident where he went unnoticed and wasn't recognised among the crowd in a bakery in Bengaluru.

While Virat's popularity, especially in India, is second to none, he is a hearthrob of Bengaluru city due to his association with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) since IPL's inception, in 2008. Nonetheless, he recently went unrecognised in the city's popular bakery shop, post India's day-night Test versus Sri Lanka early this year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-realized-what-it-feels-like-to-be-helpless-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-his-poor-run-of-form-in-ipl-2022-478096">I realized what it feels like to be helpless: Virat Kohli opens up on his poor run of form in IPL 2022</a>

“It was the third day when the test match got over,” Kohli said in a RCB video. "Anushka has almost literally grown up in Bangalore and literally almost so many friends and so many memories from here. She loves Thom's bakery. As soon as we got back to the hotel, I thought, you know what? Anushka loves the puffs there. That's her most favourite thing to eat in Bangalore,” Kohli continued.

“I walked into Thom's bakery and I told the security to sit in the car. I had a mask on and I had a cap on and it was the best possible way to experience some normalcy and I promise you nobody noticed me at all, it was such a liberating feeling,” Kohli said beaming with joy in the video.

“People were buying their stuff and I got there. I went to the counter and that's when I actually got nervous. I had my credit card, I did not have cash,” he further&nbsp;revealed.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/does-he-say-the-same-for-rohit-sharma-matthew-hayden-on-ravi-shastri-advising-virat-kohli-to-take-a-break-477887">'Does he say the same for Rohit Sharma?': Matthew Hayden on Ravi Shastri advising Virat Kohli to take a break</a>

“I gave the guy my credit card and I thought, this is it, now I am gone. I actually had my security’s number on my phone ready to dial if something happens,” Kohli explained why he had panicked in the final moments of the process.

“That's when I realised the fame of that bakery. The guy there was so busy with his work, he did not care whose credit card it was. He swiped it, I signed it, I gave him the receipt, he stamped it and he did not even read who's name was written on it. I was like, wow, this was amazing, nobody recognised me at all,” added the batting maestro.

Virat is currently involved in IPL 2022, where he continues to represent the RCB franchise. Despite his low returns with the bat, managing only 216 runs in 12 games so far, the Faf du Plessis-led franchise is on the brink of qualifying for the playoffs. At present, they have 14 points from a dozen encounters.

Virat Kohli is an extremely popular cricketer worldwide. Despite debuting in 2008, he remains the poster boy of Indian cricket and is a darling of the masses. Recently, the 33-year-old revealed an incident where he went unnoticed and wasn't recognised among the crowd in a bakery in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli is an extremely popular cricketer worldwide. Despite debuting in 2008, he remains the poster boy of Indian cricket and is a darling of the masses. Recently, the 33-year-old revealed an incident where he went unnoticed and wasn't recognised among the crowd in a bakery in Bengaluru. While Virat's popularity, especially in India, is second to none, he is a hearthrob of Bengaluru city due to his association with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) since IPL's inception, in 2008. Nonetheless, he recently went unrecognised in the city's popular bakery shop, post India's day-night Test versus Sri Lanka early this year. ALSO READ | I realized what it feels like to be helpless: Virat Kohli opens up on his poor run of form in IPL 2022 “It was the third day when the test match got over,” Kohli said in a RCB video. "Anushka has almost literally grown up in Bangalore and literally almost so many friends and so many memories from here. She loves Thom's bakery. As soon as we got back to the hotel, I thought, you know what? Anushka loves the puffs there. That's her most favourite thing to eat in Bangalore,” Kohli continued. “I walked into Thom's bakery and I told the security to sit in the car. I had a mask on and I had a cap on and it was the best possible way to experience some normalcy and I promise you nobody noticed me at all, it was such a liberating feeling,” Kohli said beaming with joy in the video. “People were buying their stuff and I got there. I went to the counter and that's when I actually got nervous. I had my credit card, I did not have cash,” he further revealed. ALSO READ | 'Does he say the same for Rohit Sharma?': Matthew Hayden on Ravi Shastri advising Virat Kohli to take a break “I gave the guy my credit card and I thought, this is it, now I am gone. I actually had my security’s number on my phone ready to dial if something happens,” Kohli explained why he had panicked in the final moments of the process. “That's when I realised the fame of that bakery. The guy there was so busy with his work, he did not care whose credit card it was. He swiped it, I signed it, I gave him the receipt, he stamped it and he did not even read who's name was written on it. I was like, wow, this was amazing, nobody recognised me at all,” added the batting maestro. Virat is currently involved in IPL 2022, where he continues to represent the RCB franchise. Despite his low returns with the bat, managing only 216 runs in 12 games so far, the Faf du Plessis-led franchise is on the brink of qualifying for the playoffs. At present, they have 14 points from a dozen encounters.

'Nobody noticed me' - Virat Kohli reveals an incident when he went unrecognised in Bengaluru

Virat Kohli has dominated world cricket, especially since India's 2011 ODI World Cup win and following stalwart Sachin Tendulkar's international retirement. Kohli has been India's go-to-man whenever they need to address a batting collapse, across formats, and has bailed the team out on numerous occasions with fighting knocks, finishing touches and several memorable tons.

From 2012-2019, Kohli majorly dominated the scoring charts and has guided India to plethora of wins. However, the superstar cricketer and former Indian captain has been nothing close to his usual best with the bat -- in any formats -- since late 2019 despite scoring half-centuries at regular intervals. It is the triple-figure knocks which have evaded Kohli and, thus, former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif addressed the Indian's indifferent run and also mentioned a technical flaw in his approach while comparing him with the Master Blaster.

“When I speak about Virat, he always used to go across the stumps. But he never believed in date, stats, coaching. He is a great player but got caught. A bottom-hand player who goes across, he got caught there. That is why when the ball goes away, he would have a problem,” Latif said on his YouTube channel ‘Caught Behind’.

<section>
“Recently, Sri Lanka came to India for a Test series. The ball was kept low. On such low pitches, Sachin would never get out, whereas Virat did. Tendulkar would change his strategy. He would come inside the crease if it’s spinning too much, and vice-versa. Sachin has had this problem a few times – like Asif dismissed him in Karachi (2006), but most often he would adjust. So this is the difference if I have to compare (Kohli and Tendulkar). On poor pitches, there is no batsman better than Sachin," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-share-heartwarming-video-of-catchups-as-virat-kohli-ravindra-jadeja-du-plessis-co-reunite-watch-470475">CSK share heartwarming video of 'catchups' as Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Du Plessis &amp; Co. reunite - WATCH</a>

Currently, Kohli is involved in IPL 2022 edition, where he his representing his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He gave up RCB captaincy last year and will like to make this a memorable season with the bat with several big scores.

So far, RCB have three wins from four encounters and occupy the third spot in the points table.
</section>

Virat Kohli has dominated world cricket, especially since India's 2011 ODI World Cup win and following stalwart Sachin Tendulkar's international retirement. Kohli has been India's go-to-man whenever they need to address a batting collapse, across formats, and has bailed the team out on numerous occasions with fighting knocks, finishing touches and several memorable tons.

Virat Kohli has dominated world cricket, especially since India's 2011 ODI World Cup win and following stalwart Sachin Tendulkar's international retirement. Kohli has been India's go-to-man whenever they need to address a batting collapse, across formats, and has bailed the team out on numerous occasions with fighting knocks, finishing touches and several memorable tons. From 2012-2019, Kohli majorly dominated the scoring charts and has guided India to plethora of wins. However, the superstar cricketer and former Indian captain has been nothing close to his usual best with the bat -- in any formats -- since late 2019 despite scoring half-centuries at regular intervals. It is the triple-figure knocks which have evaded Kohli and, thus, former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif addressed the Indian's indifferent run and also mentioned a technical flaw in his approach while comparing him with the Master Blaster. “When I speak about Virat, he always used to go across the stumps. But he never believed in date, stats, coaching. He is a great player but got caught. A bottom-hand player who goes across, he got caught there. That is why when the ball goes away, he would have a problem,” Latif said on his YouTube channel ‘Caught Behind’. “Recently, Sri Lanka came to India for a Test series. The ball was kept low. On such low pitches, Sachin would never get out, whereas Virat did. Tendulkar would change his strategy. He would come inside the crease if it’s spinning too much, and vice-versa. Sachin has had this problem a few times – like Asif dismissed him in Karachi (2006), but most often he would adjust. So this is the difference if I have to compare (Kohli and Tendulkar). On poor pitches, there is no batsman better than Sachin," he added. ALSO READ | CSK share heartwarming video of 'catchups' as Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Du Plessis & Co. reunite - WATCH Currently, Kohli is involved in IPL 2022 edition, where he his representing his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He gave up RCB captaincy last year and will like to make this a memorable season with the bat with several big scores. So far, RCB have three wins from four encounters and occupy the third spot in the points table.

SRT would change strategy: Ex-Pak cricketer mentions difference between Virat Kohli, Master Blaster

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall. Among Indians, he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) and became the second-highest, only after former captain and coach Anil Kumble.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Kumble's tally is 619. He, thus, has a sizeable lead over Ashwin but Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels the off-spinner has it in him to break Kumble's tally. In a recent interaction, the former Indian opener explained why he feels Ashwin can do the unthinkable and go past Kumble's magical number.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-jasprit-bumrah-breaks-into-top-five-virat-kohli-drops-to-ninth-spot-462883">ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot</a>

"It's still a fair distance to go, we are talking about another 160 wickets. But he is capable of doing that because he just keeps getting better. He doesn't rest on his laurels," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

Gavaskar further also highlighted how speedster Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwin are exactly the same. "Jasprit Bumrah, who got into Test cricket after Ashwin, is exactly like Ashwin in the sense that he is always looking to add to his repertoire. That is what Ashwin does. At a time a year and year-and-half-ago, Ashwin was tyring leg-spin because you can as variety ball bowl that, especially if you have got 500 runs in the bank," he pointed out said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-him-to-come-back-to-academy-virat-kohlis-childhood-coach-urges-indias-batting-star-to-work-on-basics-462795">Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics</a>

The 28-year-old Bumrah ended the India-Sri Lanka Tests with ten wickets, including his maiden five-fer. On the other hand, Ashwin remained among wickets and continued to better his stellar record in whites at home. After Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s 2-0 whitewash over the Islanders, the Indian players have now joined their respective IPL franchises ahead of the upcoming 15th edition.

IPL 2022 gets underway on March 26.

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall.

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall. Among Indians, he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) and became the second-highest, only after former captain and coach Anil Kumble. For the unversed, Kumble's tally is 619. He, thus, has a sizeable lead over Ashwin but Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels the off-spinner has it in him to break Kumble's tally. In a recent interaction, the former Indian opener explained why he feels Ashwin can do the unthinkable and go past Kumble's magical number. ALSO READ | ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot "It's still a fair distance to go, we are talking about another 160 wickets. But he is capable of doing that because he just keeps getting better. He doesn't rest on his laurels," Gavaskar told Star Sports. Gavaskar further also highlighted how speedster Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwin are exactly the same. "Jasprit Bumrah, who got into Test cricket after Ashwin, is exactly like Ashwin in the sense that he is always looking to add to his repertoire. That is what Ashwin does. At a time a year and year-and-half-ago, Ashwin was tyring leg-spin because you can as variety ball bowl that, especially if you have got 500 runs in the bank," he pointed out said. ALSO READ | Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics The 28-year-old Bumrah ended the India-Sri Lanka Tests with ten wickets, including his maiden five-fer. On the other hand, Ashwin remained among wickets and continued to better his stellar record in whites at home. After Rohit Sharma & Co.'s 2-0 whitewash over the Islanders, the Indian players have now joined their respective IPL franchises ahead of the upcoming 15th edition. IPL 2022 gets underway on March 26.

Will R Ashwin go past Anil Kumble's Test wicket-tally? Sunil Gavaskar answers the big question

Fresh from his maiden Test five-wicket haul at home, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah jumped six spots to fourth but struggling star batter Virat Kohli slipped to ninth in the latest ICC rankings released on Wednesday.

Bumrah, who returned with eight wickets in the Day/Night&nbsp;second Test against Sri Lanka&nbsp;in Bengaluru, climbed past Shaheen Afridi, Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee, James Anderson, Neil Wagner and Josh Hazlewood in the Test rankings for bowlers.

Former captain Kohli, who continued his struggle with the bat and could not convert his starts, dropped four places, but managed to remain inside the top-10 just ahead of Rishabh Pant who remained static at 10th.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wiveng-when-and-where-to-watch-west-indies-vs-england-2nd-test-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-462823">WIvENG: When and where to watch West Indies vs England 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details</a>

Kohli scored 45 in the opening Test in Mohali, while in the second Test he had scores of 23 and 13. He is yet to score a century since his 136 against Bangladesh in November 2019.

India skipper Rohit Sharma, however, held on to his sixth position to be the best-placed Indian in the batting charts.

The in-form Shreyas Iyer was rewarded for his match-winning 92 and 67 against Sri Lanka as he took a giant leap, advancing 40 spots to be on 37th position in the batting chart.

Sri Lanka Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne jumped up to a career-best No 3 after his fighting 107 in the second innings in Bangalore.

In the all-rounders' table, Ravindra Jadeja was displaced from the No.1 position as West Indies' Jason Holder reclaimed the top spot.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-scripts-history-becomes-first-bowler-to-complete-100-wickets-in-world-test-championship-462657">R Ashwin scripts history, becomes first bowler to complete 100 wickets in World Test Championship</a>

Jadeja had risen to No 1 after his 175 not out and nine wickets in the Mohali Test earlier this month.

Ravichandran Ashwin, Shakib Al Hasan and Ben Stokes rounded off the top five in the all-rounders' list.

In the bowlers' ranking, Mohammed Shami climbed up a spot to displace fellow countryman Ravindra Jadeja to 17th. Pat Cummins, Ashwin and Kagiso Rabada have retained the top three spots among the bowlers.

Fresh from his maiden Test five-wicket haul at home, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah jumped six spots to fourth but struggling star batter Virat Kohli slipped to ninth in the latest ICC rankings released on Wednesday.

Fresh from his maiden Test five-wicket haul at home, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah jumped six spots to fourth but struggling star batter Virat Kohli slipped to ninth in the latest ICC rankings released on Wednesday. Bumrah, who returned with eight wickets in the Day/Night second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru, climbed past Shaheen Afridi, Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee, James Anderson, Neil Wagner and Josh Hazlewood in the Test rankings for bowlers. Former captain Kohli, who continued his struggle with the bat and could not convert his starts, dropped four places, but managed to remain inside the top-10 just ahead of Rishabh Pant who remained static at 10th. ALSO READ: WIvENG: When and where to watch West Indies vs England 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details Kohli scored 45 in the opening Test in Mohali, while in the second Test he had scores of 23 and 13. He is yet to score a century since his 136 against Bangladesh in November 2019. India skipper Rohit Sharma, however, held on to his sixth position to be the best-placed Indian in the batting charts. The in-form Shreyas Iyer was rewarded for his match-winning 92 and 67 against Sri Lanka as he took a giant leap, advancing 40 spots to be on 37th position in the batting chart. Sri Lanka Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne jumped up to a career-best No 3 after his fighting 107 in the second innings in Bangalore. In the all-rounders' table, Ravindra Jadeja was displaced from the No.1 position as West Indies' Jason Holder reclaimed the top spot. ALSO READ: R Ashwin scripts history, becomes first bowler to complete 100 wickets in World Test Championship Jadeja had risen to No 1 after his 175 not out and nine wickets in the Mohali Test earlier this month. Ravichandran Ashwin, Shakib Al Hasan and Ben Stokes rounded off the top five in the all-rounders' list. In the bowlers' ranking, Mohammed Shami climbed up a spot to displace fellow countryman Ravindra Jadeja to 17th. Pat Cummins, Ashwin and Kagiso Rabada have retained the top three spots among the bowlers.

ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level.&nbsp;

Kohli's last hundred at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he has scored plenty of fifties but a big score continues to evade him. With another below-par series, the right-hander's ardent fans' wait for his 71st international ton has extended. Amid all this, Kohli's childhoood coach Rajkumar Sharma has a message for his pupil. Raj wants his student to return to his cricket academy, in Delhi, and rework on his basics in order to deliver at his usual best.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-indias-2-0-clean-sweep-over-sri-lanka-462550">Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka</a>

"Virat will need to come back to his basics. I would definitely want him to come back to the academy. I was thinking about this from yesterday and I am going to talk to him. The kind of confidence that he gets batting in the academy, he needs it," said&nbsp;Rajumkar&nbsp;to the&nbsp;Khelneeti&nbsp;podcast.

"He is batting really well but unfortunately, he is batting too cautiously. If starts to bat a bit more freely, like he has his entire career then soon he will be back to his best. On such wickets, you need to take more chances like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer did," concluded Rajkumar.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-thrash-sri-lanka-by-238-runs-to-register-2-0-clean-sweep-record-15th-striaght-test-series-win-at-home-462203">India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home</a>

At present, Kohli is now shifting focus to the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to commence on March 26. The superstar cricketer will be desperate to play freely in the upcoming IPL season, with no additional captaincy responsibility this time around, and regain his form by the end of the 15th edition and before he turns up for Team India.

With a T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, Kohli's form is crucial for India's chances in the showpiece event.&nbsp;
</section>

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level.

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level. Kohli's last hundred at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he has scored plenty of fifties but a big score continues to evade him. With another below-par series, the right-hander's ardent fans' wait for his 71st international ton has extended. Amid all this, Kohli's childhoood coach Rajkumar Sharma has a message for his pupil. Raj wants his student to return to his cricket academy, in Delhi, and rework on his basics in order to deliver at his usual best. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka "Virat will need to come back to his basics. I would definitely want him to come back to the academy. I was thinking about this from yesterday and I am going to talk to him. The kind of confidence that he gets batting in the academy, he needs it," said Rajumkar to the Khelneeti podcast. "He is batting really well but unfortunately, he is batting too cautiously. If starts to bat a bit more freely, like he has his entire career then soon he will be back to his best. On such wickets, you need to take more chances like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer did," concluded Rajkumar. ALSO READ | India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home At present, Kohli is now shifting focus to the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to commence on March 26. The superstar cricketer will be desperate to play freely in the upcoming IPL season, with no additional captaincy responsibility this time around, and regain his form by the end of the 15th edition and before he turns up for Team India. With a T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, Kohli's form is crucial for India's chances in the showpiece event.

Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics

India bagged a record-extending 15th straight Test series win at home as the Rohit Sharma-led side thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14). It was skipper Rohit's first series win in Tests since taking over from Virat Kohli as the new captain of the side.

India dominated the proceedings throughout the pink-ball Test as they rode on Shreyas Iyer's brilliant 92 in the first innings to post a challenging total of 252 runs before Jasprit Bumrah picked up his maiden Test fifer at home to bundle out Sri Lanka for 109 runs in their first innings.

Iyer continued his fine form with the bat in the second innings to notch up another half-century while Rishabh Pant also slammed a quickfire fifty to help India post 303 runs in their second innings. India set up a huge target of 446 runs for Sri Lanka in their second innings and skittled out the visitors for 208 runs to win the pink-ball game comprehensively and clean sweep the series 2-0.

With the 2-0 win, India moved one place to the 4th spot in the current World Test Championship (WTC) points table while Sri Lanka slipped to the fifth spot. Australia, who are currently playing Pakistan in a three-match Test series, continue to remain at the top spot with Pakistan following them on the second spot.

Check out the updated ICC World Test Championship points table:

<img alt="WTC points table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="822aff2a-8420-42c3-9aed-430aad805dcf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WCT.png" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-hails-game-changer-rishabh-pant-says-his-keeping-in-sri-lanka-series-was-best-he-has-seen-462427">Rohit Sharma hails game-changer Pant, says his keeping in Sri Lanka series was best he has seen</a>

There were a number of impressive performers for India in the two-match series against Sri Lanka. While Iyer and Pant dazzled with the willow, Hanuma Vihari also looked solid batting at number 3 in the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara. Bumrah and R Ashwin stole the show with the ball to keep the Sri Lankan batters at the bay throughout the series.

Ashwin, who went past Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests in the series-opener in Mohali, the off-spinner surpassed former South African pacer Dale Steyn to move to the number 8 spot on the list of highest wicket-takers of all time in Test cricket.

India bagged a record-extending 15th straight Test series win at home as the Rohit Sharma-led side thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14).

India bagged a record-extending 15th straight Test series win at home as the Rohit Sharma-led side thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14). It was skipper Rohit's first series win in Tests since taking over from Virat Kohli as the new captain of the side. India dominated the proceedings throughout the pink-ball Test as they rode on Shreyas Iyer's brilliant 92 in the first innings to post a challenging total of 252 runs before Jasprit Bumrah picked up his maiden Test fifer at home to bundle out Sri Lanka for 109 runs in their first innings. Iyer continued his fine form with the bat in the second innings to notch up another half-century while Rishabh Pant also slammed a quickfire fifty to help India post 303 runs in their second innings. India set up a huge target of 446 runs for Sri Lanka in their second innings and skittled out the visitors for 208 runs to win the pink-ball game comprehensively and clean sweep the series 2-0. With the 2-0 win, India moved one place to the 4th spot in the current World Test Championship (WTC) points table while Sri Lanka slipped to the fifth spot. Australia, who are currently playing Pakistan in a three-match Test series, continue to remain at the top spot with Pakistan following them on the second spot. Check out the updated ICC World Test Championship points table: Also Read: Rohit Sharma hails game-changer Pant, says his keeping in Sri Lanka series was best he has seen There were a number of impressive performers for India in the two-match series against Sri Lanka. While Iyer and Pant dazzled with the willow, Hanuma Vihari also looked solid batting at number 3 in the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara. Bumrah and R Ashwin stole the show with the ball to keep the Sri Lankan batters at the bay throughout the series. Ashwin, who went past Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests in the series-opener in Mohali, the off-spinner surpassed former South African pacer Dale Steyn to move to the number 8 spot on the list of highest wicket-takers of all time in Test cricket.

Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has lavished praise on wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant after his heroics in the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home. India thrashed Sri Lanka 2-0 in the two-match series to register their 15th straight Test series win at home. While Pant produced a brilliant show with the bat, he was also exceptional behind the stumps.

Pant had faced intense criticism from all corners after his cheap dismissal against South Africa in the Johannesburg Test earlier this year. Pant had stepped out and played an unwanted shot against pacer Kagiso Rabada at the start of his innings to get caught.&nbsp;

However, the left-hander made a strong comeback&nbsp;with a century in the Cape Town Test and continued his purple patch in the two-match series against Sri Lanka. Pant slammed a brilliant 96-run-knock in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali and followed it up with scores of 39 and 50 runs in the second Test in Bengaluru.

Pant also smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian batter in Tests as he notched up his half-century off just 28 balls in the second Test. He broke the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-od record with his dashing knock and also earned praise from many, including Indian skipper Rohit.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-thrash-sri-lanka-by-238-runs-to-register-2-0-clean-sweep-record-15th-striaght-test-series-win-at-home-462203">&nbsp;India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home</a>

While Rohit insisted that he wants Pant to continue playing his natural attacking game, the Indian skipper said Pant has been told that he would have to curtail his natural instincts and play as per the situation whenever the team requires.

"His batting is his batting. We know how he bats and as a team we just want to give him that freedom to bat in the way that he wants to bat. But also keeping in mind certain situations of the game, where the game is going, we have also conveyed that to him, but we want to stick with his game plan as a team. It just seems to get better and get better - his game plans," said Rohit in the press conference post the conclusion of the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka.

"There will be times when you will smash your head and say 'why did he play that shot' but again we need to be ready to accept that with him when he bats. And he is somebody who can change the game in 40 minutes," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-my-personal-opinion-rohit-sharma-on-hailing-ravichandran-ashwin-as-an-all-time-great-462265">'It was my personal opinion': Rohit Sharma on hailing Ravichandran Ashwin as an all-time great</a>

While highlighting his batting heroics, Rohit also heaped praise on Pant's wicket-keeping and said his keeping in the Sri Lanka series was the best he has seen from the left-hander.

"And the most significant factor of his in this series was his keeping. His keeping was best that I have seen. He kept well when England came last year and he seems to get better every time he keeps wickets for India, so that is something that I have been very impressed with," Rohit said.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has lavished praise on wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant after his heroics in the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has lavished praise on wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant after his heroics in the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home. India thrashed Sri Lanka 2-0 in the two-match series to register their 15th straight Test series win at home. While Pant produced a brilliant show with the bat, he was also exceptional behind the stumps. Pant had faced intense criticism from all corners after his cheap dismissal against South Africa in the Johannesburg Test earlier this year. Pant had stepped out and played an unwanted shot against pacer Kagiso Rabada at the start of his innings to get caught. However, the left-hander made a strong comeback with a century in the Cape Town Test and continued his purple patch in the two-match series against Sri Lanka. Pant slammed a brilliant 96-run-knock in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali and followed it up with scores of 39 and 50 runs in the second Test in Bengaluru. Pant also smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian batter in Tests as he notched up his half-century off just 28 balls in the second Test. He broke the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-od record with his dashing knock and also earned praise from many, including Indian skipper Rohit. Also Read: India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home While Rohit insisted that he wants Pant to continue playing his natural attacking game, the Indian skipper said Pant has been told that he would have to curtail his natural instincts and play as per the situation whenever the team requires. "His batting is his batting. We know how he bats and as a team we just want to give him that freedom to bat in the way that he wants to bat. But also keeping in mind certain situations of the game, where the game is going, we have also conveyed that to him, but we want to stick with his game plan as a team. It just seems to get better and get better - his game plans," said Rohit in the press conference post the conclusion of the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka. "There will be times when you will smash your head and say 'why did he play that shot' but again we need to be ready to accept that with him when he bats. And he is somebody who can change the game in 40 minutes," he added. Also Read: 'It was my personal opinion': Rohit Sharma on hailing Ravichandran Ashwin as an all-time great While highlighting his batting heroics, Rohit also heaped praise on Pant's wicket-keeping and said his keeping in the Sri Lanka series was the best he has seen from the left-hander. "And the most significant factor of his in this series was his keeping. His keeping was best that I have seen. He kept well when England came last year and he seems to get better every time he keeps wickets for India, so that is something that I have been very impressed with," Rohit said.

Rohit Sharma hails game-changer Rishabh Pant, says his keeping in Sri Lanka series was best he has seen

India continued their dominant run as they thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14). Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin ran through the Sri Lankan batting line-up as the visitors were skittled out for 208 runs while chasing the target of 447 runs in their second innings.

Captain Dimuth Karunaratne slammed a fighting hundred as he notched up 107 runs off 174 deliveries and was well supported by Kusal Mendis, who scored 54 runs as Sri Lanka produced a resilient effort with the bat in their second innings of the pink-ball Test. However, the duo's efforts were not enough to get the visitors over the line in the tricky run-chase.

Bumrah, who had picked up a five-wicket haul in the first innings followed it up with three important wickets during Sri Lanka's second innings. Ashwin bagged a four-wicket haul to run through the visitors' lower order as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. clean swept the series 2-0 with yet another huge win.

This is India's record-extending 15th successive Test series win at home and Rohit's first as the captain of the side. The Hitman has had a fantastic start to his stint as India's full-time captain across all three formats with series wins against the likes of New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka at home so far.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-will-end-up-being-one-of-the-greats-like-ms-dhoni-for-team-india-says-dinesh-karthik-462195">Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik</a>

While Bumrah shone with the ball, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant impressed with the bat for India. Iyer slammed a brilliant 92-run knock in the first innings to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on a difficult pitch for the batters. He followed it up with a quickfire 67 runs in India's second innings.

Pant slammed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Tests as he notched up&nbsp;50 off 31 balls in India's second innings to help the hosts post a total 303/9 (declared). With 303 runs in their second innings, India handed a target of 447 runs to Sri Lanka in their second innings after bundling them out for a paltry 109 runs in their first innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-love-his-game-legendary-kapil-dev-heaps-praise-on-ravindra-jadeja-after-his-heroics-against-sri-lanka-462182">'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka</a>

Despite the century from skipper Karunaratne and a fighting fifty from Mendis, Sri Lanka were never in the run-chase but managed to cross the 200-run mark in their second innings. The visitors folded for 208 runs to lose the game by 238 runs as they remained winless in the series.

India continued their dominant run as they thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14).

India continued their dominant run as they thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14). Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin ran through the Sri Lankan batting line-up as the visitors were skittled out for 208 runs while chasing the target of 447 runs in their second innings. Captain Dimuth Karunaratne slammed a fighting hundred as he notched up 107 runs off 174 deliveries and was well supported by Kusal Mendis, who scored 54 runs as Sri Lanka produced a resilient effort with the bat in their second innings of the pink-ball Test. However, the duo's efforts were not enough to get the visitors over the line in the tricky run-chase. Bumrah, who had picked up a five-wicket haul in the first innings followed it up with three important wickets during Sri Lanka's second innings. Ashwin bagged a four-wicket haul to run through the visitors' lower order as Rohit Sharma & Co. clean swept the series 2-0 with yet another huge win. This is India's record-extending 15th successive Test series win at home and Rohit's first as the captain of the side. The Hitman has had a fantastic start to his stint as India's full-time captain across all three formats with series wins against the likes of New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka at home so far. Also Read: Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik While Bumrah shone with the ball, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant impressed with the bat for India. Iyer slammed a brilliant 92-run knock in the first innings to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on a difficult pitch for the batters. He followed it up with a quickfire 67 runs in India's second innings. Pant slammed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Tests as he notched up 50 off 31 balls in India's second innings to help the hosts post a total 303/9 (declared). With 303 runs in their second innings, India handed a target of 447 runs to Sri Lanka in their second innings after bundling them out for a paltry 109 runs in their first innings. Also Read: 'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka Despite the century from skipper Karunaratne and a fighting fifty from Mendis, Sri Lanka were never in the run-chase but managed to cross the 200-run mark in their second innings. The visitors folded for 208 runs to lose the game by 238 runs as they remained winless in the series.

India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma on Monday insisted that R Ashwin is indeed an all-time great in his eyes. Rohit had hailed Ashwin as one of the greats of the game after the senior spinner surpassed Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali.

Ashwin has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers for India in the longest format over the years. He is among the best spinners in the world at present and continues to scale new milestones in his career. However, Rohit's comments for Ashwin after the first Test between India and Sri Lanka didn't go down well with many.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif even went on to claim that it might have been a 'slip of the tongue' for Rohit. However, the Indian skipper has put to rest all such claims and clarified that in his personal opinion, Ashwin is an all-time great in Test cricket.&nbsp;

Speaking at the press conference after the conclusion of the second Test between India and Sri Lanka in Bengaluru on Monday, Rohit said - "It was my personal opinion (that he is an all-time great). He puts in match-winning performances whenever we give him the ball. He still has a lot of life left in him. We have a lot of things to look forward to in the coming months. I need to make sure he's in a decent frame of mind."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-surpasses-dale-steyns-tally-becomes-8th-highest-wicket-taker-in-test-cricket-462199">Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Dale Steyn, becomes 8th highest wicket-taker in Test cricket</a>

Meanwhile, Ashwin continued his terrific run with the ball as India hammered Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second Test in Bengaluru. The senior off-spinner picked up a total of six wickets across the two innings to go past Dale Styen to the 8th spot in the list of highest wicket-takers of all time in Test cricket.

Ashwin has 442 wickets to his name in 86 Test matches at present, including 30 fifers and 7 ten-wicket hauls. The off-spinner is only behind the legendary Anil Kumble in the list of highest wicket-takers for India in Tests. He will be looking to continue his fine form when India take the field in their next Test assignment later this year.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma on Monday insisted that R Ashwin is indeed an all-time great in his eyes. Rohit had hailed Ashwin as one of the greats of the game after the senior spinner surpassed Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma on Monday insisted that R Ashwin is indeed an all-time great in his eyes. Rohit had hailed Ashwin as one of the greats of the game after the senior spinner surpassed Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali. Ashwin has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers for India in the longest format over the years. He is among the best spinners in the world at present and continues to scale new milestones in his career. However, Rohit's comments for Ashwin after the first Test between India and Sri Lanka didn't go down well with many. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif even went on to claim that it might have been a 'slip of the tongue' for Rohit. However, the Indian skipper has put to rest all such claims and clarified that in his personal opinion, Ashwin is an all-time great in Test cricket. Speaking at the press conference after the conclusion of the second Test between India and Sri Lanka in Bengaluru on Monday, Rohit said - "It was my personal opinion (that he is an all-time great). He puts in match-winning performances whenever we give him the ball. He still has a lot of life left in him. We have a lot of things to look forward to in the coming months. I need to make sure he's in a decent frame of mind." Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Dale Steyn, becomes 8th highest wicket-taker in Test cricket Meanwhile, Ashwin continued his terrific run with the ball as India hammered Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second Test in Bengaluru. The senior off-spinner picked up a total of six wickets across the two innings to go past Dale Styen to the 8th spot in the list of highest wicket-takers of all time in Test cricket. Ashwin has 442 wickets to his name in 86 Test matches at present, including 30 fifers and 7 ten-wicket hauls. The off-spinner is only behind the legendary Anil Kumble in the list of highest wicket-takers for India in Tests. He will be looking to continue his fine form when India take the field in their next Test assignment later this year.

'It was my personal opinion': Rohit Sharma on hailing Ravichandran Ashwin as an all-time great

Rohit Sharma went on to clean sweep his maiden Test series as a skipper as India beat Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the Day-Night Test match here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to sweep the two-match series 2-0.

In challenging conditions to bat under the lights the Indian batters struggled but Shreyas Iyer's strategy to attack paid him rich dividends as he top-scored for India in both innings scoring 92 and 67.

His superlative performance helped him earn the 'Player of the Match'&nbsp;award as well as the praise of his skipper.

"Shreyas just carried on from where he left off in the T20 series against Sri Lanka. He seemed to carry that form into the Test series. He knew he was stepping into the big shoes of guys like Rahane and Pujara, but he has everything that he requires. He will be better now when he starts travelling," said Indian captain Virat Kohli.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-will-end-up-being-one-of-the-greats-like-ms-dhoni-for-team-india-says-dinesh-karthik-462195">Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik</a>

Ravindra Jadeja was India's star performer in the previous match in Mohali performing with both bat and ball.

"We have seen Jadeja grow as a batter and he seems to get better and better. He strengthens the team, and he's also improving as a bowler. And he`s a gun fielder, so he is a complete package," told Rohit Sharma.

Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant played a knock of 39 of 26 balls in the first innings and scored the fastest Test half-century by an Indian in a Test match breaking Kapil Dev's record of achieving the same in 30 balls way back in 1982 against Pakistan in Karachi.

Pant also affected five dismissals in the match.

His all-around performance in the series helped him bag the 'Player of the Series' award.

"Rishabh seems to get better with each game that he plays. Especially in these conditions. We saw it in the England series (last year) and now. A couple of catches and stumpings showed how confident he is," said Rohit Sharma.

India were playing its third Test match on home soil and they have won all three inside three days.

"It's been a good run and I have enjoyed it personally and as a team. We wanted to achieve a few things as a team, and we have done that. Pink-ball Tests are challenging. We never knew what it was like to play with the pink ball in India, but we are learning to make those adjustments. The crowd just makes it more special," told Rohit Sharma.

Rohit Sharma went on to clean sweep his maiden Test series as a skipper as India beat Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the Day-Night Test match here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to sweep the two-match series 2-0.

Rohit Sharma went on to clean sweep his maiden Test series as a skipper as India beat Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the Day-Night Test match here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to sweep the two-match series 2-0. In challenging conditions to bat under the lights the Indian batters struggled but Shreyas Iyer's strategy to attack paid him rich dividends as he top-scored for India in both innings scoring 92 and 67. His superlative performance helped him earn the 'Player of the Match' award as well as the praise of his skipper. "Shreyas just carried on from where he left off in the T20 series against Sri Lanka. He seemed to carry that form into the Test series. He knew he was stepping into the big shoes of guys like Rahane and Pujara, but he has everything that he requires. He will be better now when he starts travelling," said Indian captain Virat Kohli. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik Ravindra Jadeja was India's star performer in the previous match in Mohali performing with both bat and ball. "We have seen Jadeja grow as a batter and he seems to get better and better. He strengthens the team, and he's also improving as a bowler. And he`s a gun fielder, so he is a complete package," told Rohit Sharma. Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant played a knock of 39 of 26 balls in the first innings and scored the fastest Test half-century by an Indian in a Test match breaking Kapil Dev's record of achieving the same in 30 balls way back in 1982 against Pakistan in Karachi. Pant also affected five dismissals in the match. His all-around performance in the series helped him bag the 'Player of the Series' award. "Rishabh seems to get better with each game that he plays. Especially in these conditions. We saw it in the England series (last year) and now. A couple of catches and stumpings showed how confident he is," said Rohit Sharma. India were playing its third Test match on home soil and they have won all three inside three days. "It's been a good run and I have enjoyed it personally and as a team. We wanted to achieve a few things as a team, and we have done that. Pink-ball Tests are challenging. We never knew what it was like to play with the pink ball in India, but we are learning to make those adjustments. The crowd just makes it more special," told Rohit Sharma.

Shreyas Iyer knew he was stepping into big shoes of Rahane and Pujara, says skipper Rohit Sharma

Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surpassed South African pacer Dale Steyn's tally of 439 Test wickets here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Monday.

Ashwin bagged his 440th Test wicket on Day 3 of the ongoing pink-ball Test match against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.

The veteran spinner, who removed Dhananjaya de Silva for his 440th Test wicket, has now become the 8th highest wicket-taker in the history of red-ball cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-love-his-game-legendary-kapil-dev-heaps-praise-on-ravindra-jadeja-after-his-heroics-against-sri-lanka-462182">'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka</a>

Ashwin trails the likes of Muthiah Muralidaran (800), Shane Warne (708), and James Anderson (640) - the top 3.

However, he is third among currently active players, behind Anderson and Stuart Broad (537).

Ashwin is, at present, India's second-highest wicket-taker after Anil Kumble who has 619 wickets in the longest format of the game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-becomes-first-indian-to-achieve-rare-feat-with-twin-half-centuries-in-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-462102">Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

In the first Test match of the series in Mohali, Ashwin had overtaken Kapil Dev's tally of 434 wickets to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in the history of the longest format.

The hosts are just six wickets away from victory as they dismissed three batters to leave the visitors at 151/4 at Tea on Day-3 of the second Test being played here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surpassed South African pacer Dale Steyn's tally of 439 Test wickets here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Monday. Ashwin bagged his 440th Test wicket on Day 3 of the ongoing pink-ball Test match against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.

Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surpassed South African pacer Dale Steyn's tally of 439 Test wickets here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Monday. Ashwin bagged his 440th Test wicket on Day 3 of the ongoing pink-ball Test match against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. The veteran spinner, who removed Dhananjaya de Silva for his 440th Test wicket, has now become the 8th highest wicket-taker in the history of red-ball cricket. ALSO READ: 'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka Ashwin trails the likes of Muthiah Muralidaran (800), Shane Warne (708), and James Anderson (640) - the top 3. However, he is third among currently active players, behind Anderson and Stuart Broad (537). Ashwin is, at present, India's second-highest wicket-taker after Anil Kumble who has 619 wickets in the longest format of the game. ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka In the first Test match of the series in Mohali, Ashwin had overtaken Kapil Dev's tally of 434 wickets to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in the history of the longest format. The hosts are just six wickets away from victory as they dismissed three batters to leave the visitors at 151/4 at Tea on Day-3 of the second Test being played here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Dale Steyn, becomes 8th highest wicket-taker in Test cricket

India wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant shattered the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record on Sunday (March 13) as he smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Test cricket. Pant notched up his half-century off just 28 balls in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Pant went after the Sri Lankan bowling attack and took them to the cleaners as he slammed seven fours and two sixes in his enthralling knock to help India extend their lead. With the help of the half-century from the wicket-keeper batter and Shreyas Iyer, India managed to pst 303/9 (declared) on the board in their second innings to hand Sri Lanka a huge target of 447 runs.

Pant earned praise from all corners after his destructive knock against Sri Lanka and was also lauded by veteran India wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik. Karthik said the left-hander was already on his way towards attaining greatness and stated that he might finish as one of India's greatest wicket-keepers along with the legendary MS Dhoni.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-virat-kohli-win-hearts-with-their-gesture-for-suranga-lakmal-during-pink-ball-test-462092">WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test</a>

Former India captain MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the best wicket-keeper batsmen in the history of the game. He also holds the record for most dismissals and most runs by an Indian wicket-keeper in Test cricket.&nbsp;

"You have to say that Rishabh Pant is on his way to greatness. I think if he has a full-fledged wicketkeeping career for India, he will end up being one of the greats along with MS Dhoni. These two will stand out as India's greatest wicketkeepers who have played the game," Karthik said on Cricbuzz.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-love-his-game-legendary-kapil-dev-heaps-praise-on-ravindra-jadeja-after-his-heroics-against-sri-lanka-462182">&nbsp;'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka</a>

Karthik further added that Pant also reminded him of someone like Virender Sehwag, who was known for his ability to take down bowling attacks single-handedly across all formats of the game. Karthik said Pant's natural game is about taking risks and he has been extremely good with it so far.

"Rishabh Pant has the game to take risks and consistently be good at it. Also, he reminds me of Virender Sehwag, in the sense that when the field is up, he has the ability to hit boundaries at ease right from the get-go and that makes him a very special Test player. Test cricket in many ways is a boundary-hitting format for him,"&nbsp;Karthik&nbsp;added.

India wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant shattered the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record on Sunday (March 13) as he smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Test cricket.

India wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant shattered the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record on Sunday (March 13) as he smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Test cricket. Pant notched up his half-century off just 28 balls in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Pant went after the Sri Lankan bowling attack and took them to the cleaners as he slammed seven fours and two sixes in his enthralling knock to help India extend their lead. With the help of the half-century from the wicket-keeper batter and Shreyas Iyer, India managed to pst 303/9 (declared) on the board in their second innings to hand Sri Lanka a huge target of 447 runs. Pant earned praise from all corners after his destructive knock against Sri Lanka and was also lauded by veteran India wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik. Karthik said the left-hander was already on his way towards attaining greatness and stated that he might finish as one of India's greatest wicket-keepers along with the legendary MS Dhoni. Also Read: WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test Former India captain MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the best wicket-keeper batsmen in the history of the game. He also holds the record for most dismissals and most runs by an Indian wicket-keeper in Test cricket. "You have to say that Rishabh Pant is on his way to greatness. I think if he has a full-fledged wicketkeeping career for India, he will end up being one of the greats along with MS Dhoni. These two will stand out as India's greatest wicketkeepers who have played the game," Karthik said on Cricbuzz. Also Read: 'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka Karthik further added that Pant also reminded him of someone like Virender Sehwag, who was known for his ability to take down bowling attacks single-handedly across all formats of the game. Karthik said Pant's natural game is about taking risks and he has been extremely good with it so far. "Rishabh Pant has the game to take risks and consistently be good at it. Also, he reminds me of Virender Sehwag, in the sense that when the field is up, he has the ability to hit boundaries at ease right from the get-go and that makes him a very special Test player. Test cricket in many ways is a boundary-hitting format for him," Karthik added.

Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik

Legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev lavished huge praise on star India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after his recent heroics in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka at home. Jadeja was the hero of India's emphatic win by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test against the visitors as he produced a brilliant all-round show with the bat and the ball.

Jadeja slammed an unbeaten 175-run knock before picking up nine wickets across Sri Lanka's two innings to emerge as the Man of the Match for India in the series-opener in Mohali. Jadeja broke Kapil Dev's record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter batting at no.7 or below in Test cricket.

Kapil recently spoke about the all-rounder's heroics in the Mohali Test against Sri Lanka and said he loves Jadeja's game. Kapil lauded Jadeja for playing his cricket without pressure which makes his performances stand out.

"I love Ravindra Jadeja’s game among the new cricketers because he plays without pressure. He enjoys cricket. That’s why he is good at bowling as well as batting. He also does a great job in fielding. I believe that nothing can be done properly under pressure. If you take pressure in the field of cricket, then your performance will be bad," Kapil said.

The 1983 World Cup-winning captain is regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen. He held the record for the highest individual score by an Indian at no.7 or below in Tests for 36 years before Jadeja broke it against Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-becomes-first-indian-to-achieve-rare-feat-with-twin-half-centuries-in-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-462102">Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

After thrashing Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the series-opener, India are edging closer to another comprehensive win in the ongoing second Test between the two sides at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. India have handed Sri Lanka a huge target of 447 runs in their second innings and have already reduced the visitors to 180/6 on Day 3 of the pink-ball game.

Legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev lavished huge praise on star India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after his recent heroics in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka at home.

Legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev lavished huge praise on star India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after his recent heroics in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka at home. Jadeja was the hero of India's emphatic win by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test against the visitors as he produced a brilliant all-round show with the bat and the ball. Jadeja slammed an unbeaten 175-run knock before picking up nine wickets across Sri Lanka's two innings to emerge as the Man of the Match for India in the series-opener in Mohali. Jadeja broke Kapil Dev's record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter batting at no.7 or below in Test cricket. Kapil recently spoke about the all-rounder's heroics in the Mohali Test against Sri Lanka and said he loves Jadeja's game. Kapil lauded Jadeja for playing his cricket without pressure which makes his performances stand out. "I love Ravindra Jadeja’s game among the new cricketers because he plays without pressure. He enjoys cricket. That’s why he is good at bowling as well as batting. He also does a great job in fielding. I believe that nothing can be done properly under pressure. If you take pressure in the field of cricket, then your performance will be bad," Kapil said. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain is regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen. He held the record for the highest individual score by an Indian at no.7 or below in Tests for 36 years before Jadeja broke it against Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka After thrashing Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the series-opener, India are edging closer to another comprehensive win in the ongoing second Test between the two sides at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. India have handed Sri Lanka a huge target of 447 runs in their second innings and have already reduced the visitors to 180/6 on Day 3 of the pink-ball game.

'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka

Star batter Shreyas Iyer continued his magnificent run in India's second innings of the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. Iyer slammed back-to-back half-centuries in both innings of the Test match to become the first Indian to achieve a rare feat in a pink-ball game.

After slamming a brilliant knock of 92 runs in India's first innings, Iyer followed it up with another half-century in their second innings on Day 2 of the Test match. The in-form batter scored a quickfire 67 off 87 deliveries as he helped India post a total of 303/9 (declared) in their second innings to&nbsp;hand Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs.

With his twin half-centuries in the two innings, Iyer achieved a rare feat as he became the first Indian batter to score a half-century in both innings of a pink-ball Test match. He also became only the fourth player in the world after the likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne to achieve the rare feat.

Players with two half-centuries in a pink-ball Test:

Darren Bravo v Pakistan, Dubai, 2016 
Steve Smith v Pakistan, Brisbane, 2016 
M Labuschagne v New Zealand, Perth, 2019 
M Labuschagne v England, Adelaide, 2021 
Shreyas Iyer v Sri Lanka, Bengaluru, 2022

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-virat-kohli-win-hearts-with-their-gesture-for-suranga-lakmal-during-pink-ball-test-462092">WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test</a>&nbsp;

After bundling out Sri Lanka for a platry 109 runs in their first innings to amass a healthy lead of 143 runs, Indian batters produced an improved show in their second innings. While skipper Rohit Sharma (46) and Hanuma Vihari (35) contributed with vital knocks, Pant and Iyer slammed half-centuries apiece.

India declared their second innings on 303/9 before inviting Sri Lanka to chase 447 runs in their second innings. The hosts are in a strong position in the Test match and need just nine wickets with three days to play to win the game and register a 2-0 clean sweep.

Star batter Shreyas Iyer continued his magnificent run in India's second innings of the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday.

Star batter Shreyas Iyer continued his magnificent run in India's second innings of the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. Iyer slammed back-to-back half-centuries in both innings of the Test match to become the first Indian to achieve a rare feat in a pink-ball game. After slamming a brilliant knock of 92 runs in India's first innings, Iyer followed it up with another half-century in their second innings on Day 2 of the Test match. The in-form batter scored a quickfire 67 off 87 deliveries as he helped India post a total of 303/9 (declared) in their second innings to hand Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs. With his twin half-centuries in the two innings, Iyer achieved a rare feat as he became the first Indian batter to score a half-century in both innings of a pink-ball Test match. He also became only the fourth player in the world after the likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne to achieve the rare feat. Players with two half-centuries in a pink-ball Test: Darren Bravo v Pakistan, Dubai, 2016 Steve Smith v Pakistan, Brisbane, 2016 M Labuschagne v New Zealand, Perth, 2019 M Labuschagne v England, Adelaide, 2021 Shreyas Iyer v Sri Lanka, Bengaluru, 2022 Also Read: WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test After bundling out Sri Lanka for a platry 109 runs in their first innings to amass a healthy lead of 143 runs, Indian batters produced an improved show in their second innings. While skipper Rohit Sharma (46) and Hanuma Vihari (35) contributed with vital knocks, Pant and Iyer slammed half-centuries apiece. India declared their second innings on 303/9 before inviting Sri Lanka to chase 447 runs in their second innings. The hosts are in a strong position in the Test match and need just nine wickets with three days to play to win the game and register a 2-0 clean sweep.

Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka

India head coach Rahul Dravid and senior batter Vira Kohli won the hearts of cricket fans with their amazing gesture for Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal. The duo was spotted visiting the Sri Lankan dressing room on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka to congratulate Lakmal on his retirement.

The Sri Lankan pacer had announced his retirement from international cricket ahead of the start of Sri Lanka's tour of India. The ongoing pink-ball Test match in Bengaluru is his last international match for his country. Dravid and Kohli both visited the Sri Lankan dressing room after India's declared their second innings on Day 2 to congratulate&nbsp;Lakmal.

BCCI shared the video of Kohli and Dravid's gesture for Lakmal which was appreciated by many on social media.

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Head Coach Rahul Dravid and former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> congratulate Suranga Lakmal as he is all set to bid adieu to international cricket.<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> <a href="https://t.co/Vroo0mlQLB">pic.twitter.com/Vroo0mlQLB</a>
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Lakmal managed only one wicket in his last Test match for Sri Lanka as he managed to get rid of all-rounder Axar Patel during India's first innings of the pink-ball game. The Sri Lankan pacer went wicket-less in India's second innings. He has played 69 Tests, 86 ODIs and 11 T20Is in his career, picking up 170, 109 and 8 wickets in the three formats respectively.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-test-average-slips-below-50-for-first-time-since-2017-after-poor-show-against-sri-lanka-461947">&nbsp;Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka</a>

Talking about the second Test, India rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant (50) and Shreyas Iyer (67) to post 303/9 (declared) on the board in their second innings and hand the visitors a target of 447 runs to win the game.&nbsp;Indian bowlers then managed to reduce Sri Lanka to 28/1 in 7 overs at stumps on Day 2.

Indian bowlers will be looking to wrap up Sri Lanka's second innings on Day 3 of the Test match and seal a comfortable win for the hosts. India will clean sweep the series 2-0 if they manage to win the Bengaluru Test.

&nbsp;

India head coach Rahul Dravid and senior batter Vira Kohli won the hearts of cricket fans with their amazing gesture for Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal. The duo was spotted visiting the Sri Lankan dressing room on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka to congratulate Lakmal on his retirement.

India head coach Rahul Dravid and senior batter Vira Kohli won the hearts of cricket fans with their amazing gesture for Sri Lankan pacer Suranga Lakmal. The duo was spotted visiting the Sri Lankan dressing room on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka to congratulate Lakmal on his retirement. The Sri Lankan pacer had announced his retirement from international cricket ahead of the start of Sri Lanka's tour of India. The ongoing pink-ball Test match in Bengaluru is his last international match for his country. Dravid and Kohli both visited the Sri Lankan dressing room after India's declared their second innings on Day 2 to congratulate Lakmal. BCCI shared the video of Kohli and Dravid's gesture for Lakmal which was appreciated by many on social media. Head Coach Rahul Dravid and former #TeamIndia Captain @imVkohli congratulate Suranga Lakmal as he is all set to bid adieu to international cricket.@Paytm #INDvSL pic.twitter.com/Vroo0mlQLB — BCCI (@BCCI) March 13, 2022 × Lakmal managed only one wicket in his last Test match for Sri Lanka as he managed to get rid of all-rounder Axar Patel during India's first innings of the pink-ball game. The Sri Lankan pacer went wicket-less in India's second innings. He has played 69 Tests, 86 ODIs and 11 T20Is in his career, picking up 170, 109 and 8 wickets in the three formats respectively. Also Read: Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka Talking about the second Test, India rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant (50) and Shreyas Iyer (67) to post 303/9 (declared) on the board in their second innings and hand the visitors a target of 447 runs to win the game. Indian bowlers then managed to reduce Sri Lanka to 28/1 in 7 overs at stumps on Day 2. Indian bowlers will be looking to wrap up Sri Lanka's second innings on Day 3 of the Test match and seal a comfortable win for the hosts. India will clean sweep the series 2-0 if they manage to win the Bengaluru Test.

WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was dismissed on 13 off 16 balls by left-arm spinner Praveen Jayawickrama on Day 2 of the second Test between the two sides.

It was once again a delivery that kept low which got the better of Kohli as the Bengaluru crowd went silent after the batting maestro's dismissal. While the&nbsp;wait for his 71st international century got extended yet again, Kohli's poor show meant he is no more the only batter in the world to average over fifty across all three formats of the game.

On a pitch that has uneven bounce and has assisted the bowlers, Kohli made a cautious start in India's second innings on Sunday. However, a lowly delivery from Jayawickrama sent him back. Kohli scored 23 and 13 in the two innings respectively as his average in the longest format dropped to 49.95.

The former India skipper needed at least 43 runs across two innings in the second Test to ensure his average remained above 50. However, he failed to do so much to the disappointment of the crowd in Bengaluru. Kohli at present has&nbsp;8043 runs in 101 Tests at an average of 49.95 for India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-breaks-kapil-devs-40-year-old-record-with-sensational-fifty-in-pin-ball-test-against-sri-lanka-461919">Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka</a>

Kohli has been enduring a lean patch in Test cricket over the last couple of years. He has averaged only 28.03 in 17 Test matches from the start of 2020. His last hundred in the longest format came against Bangladesh in the pink-ball Test in Kolkata in November 2019.

Despite Kohli's underwhelming show with the bat, India are in a strong position in the Test match as they rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer to post 303/9 (declared) on the board. India have handed Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs and are favourites to win the game.

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was dismissed on 13 off 16 balls by left-arm spinner Praveen Jayawickrama on Day 2 of the second Test between the two sides. It was once again a delivery that kept low which got the better of Kohli as the Bengaluru crowd went silent after the batting maestro's dismissal. While the wait for his 71st international century got extended yet again, Kohli's poor show meant he is no more the only batter in the world to average over fifty across all three formats of the game. On a pitch that has uneven bounce and has assisted the bowlers, Kohli made a cautious start in India's second innings on Sunday. However, a lowly delivery from Jayawickrama sent him back. Kohli scored 23 and 13 in the two innings respectively as his average in the longest format dropped to 49.95. The former India skipper needed at least 43 runs across two innings in the second Test to ensure his average remained above 50. However, he failed to do so much to the disappointment of the crowd in Bengaluru. Kohli at present has 8043 runs in 101 Tests at an average of 49.95 for India. Also Read: Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka Kohli has been enduring a lean patch in Test cricket over the last couple of years. He has averaged only 28.03 in 17 Test matches from the start of 2020. His last hundred in the longest format came against Bangladesh in the pink-ball Test in Kolkata in November 2019. Despite Kohli's underwhelming show with the bat, India are in a strong position in the Test match as they rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer to post 303/9 (declared) on the board. India have handed Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs and are favourites to win the game.

Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka ended day two on 28-1 in their second innings after India set them a mammoth target of 447 for victory in the second and final test on Sunday.

Jasprit Bumrah struck in the first over to trap opener Lahiru Thirimanne lbw for a duck but skipper Dimuth Karunaratne (10) and Kusal Mendis (16) saw out the final few overs of the day, with the tourists still 419 runs behind.

Having bowled out Sri Lanka for 109 in the first session, India batted 69 overs before declaring on 303-9 with Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant notching up half-centuries while other Indian batsmen failed to go on from solid starts.

Skipper Rohit Sharma, playing his 400th international match, holed out in the deep to fall four runs short of his fifty while Hanuma Vihari (35) was bowled by spinner Praveen Jayawickrama as he tried to sweep.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-test-average-slips-below-50-for-first-time-since-2017-after-poor-show-against-sri-lanka-461947">Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka</a>

Jayawickrama struck again to surprise Virat Kohli (13) with a delivery that turned sharply and kept low, trapping him lbw in identical fashion to his dismissal in the first innings.

Kohli gave a wry smile as silence descended on the M Chinnaswamy Stadium with a near-capacity crowd hoping to see the former captain and star of the IPL franchise end his century drought.

But Pant took the game away from the Lankans by going after the bowling as soon as he walked to the crease, bringing up his fifty with seven fours and two sixes.

Made from 28 balls, his half-century was the fastest by an Indian batsman, breaking the record set by Kapil Dev 40 years ago, before he skied a delivery from Jayawickrama who took the catch himself.

Iyer helped guide India to a lead beyond 400 with his second half-century of the match to add to his fine knock of 92 on a turning track in the first innings.

With nine boundaries, Iyer looked comfortable at the crease before he was outfoxed by a Lasith Embuldeniya delivery that rapped him on the pads and sent him back to the pavilion for 67.

"It was quite challenging. A kind of wicket where any ball could get you out. It will be challenging for Sri Lanka tomorrow as well," Vihari said.

"I don't think we planned on bowling this evening. But because we lost wickets, we thought we could have a crack at them for 35-40 minutes."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-breaks-kapil-devs-40-year-old-record-with-sensational-fifty-in-pin-ball-test-against-sri-lanka-461919">Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka</a>

Fast bowler Suranga Lakmal, playing in his final match before retirement, went wicketless in the second innings but he led the tourists off the field, with India coach Rahul Dravid also shaking his hand.

Earlier, Sri Lanka had resumed day two on 86-6 but their resistance lasted only 27 minutes as Bumrah (5-24) and Ravichandran Ashwin (2-30) cleaned up the tail.

Bumrah claimed his eighth five-wicket haul and his first on home soil on a pitch heavily favouring spinners.

Sri Lanka ended day two on 28-1 in their second innings after India set them a mammoth target of 447 for victory in the second and final test on Sunday. Jasprit Bumrah struck in the first over to trap opener Lahiru Thirimanne lbw for a duck but skipper Dimuth Karunaratne (10) and Kusal Mendis (16) saw out the final few overs of the day, with the tourists still 419 runs behind.

Sri Lanka ended day two on 28-1 in their second innings after India set them a mammoth target of 447 for victory in the second and final test on Sunday. Jasprit Bumrah struck in the first over to trap opener Lahiru Thirimanne lbw for a duck but skipper Dimuth Karunaratne (10) and Kusal Mendis (16) saw out the final few overs of the day, with the tourists still 419 runs behind. Having bowled out Sri Lanka for 109 in the first session, India batted 69 overs before declaring on 303-9 with Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant notching up half-centuries while other Indian batsmen failed to go on from solid starts. Skipper Rohit Sharma, playing his 400th international match, holed out in the deep to fall four runs short of his fifty while Hanuma Vihari (35) was bowled by spinner Praveen Jayawickrama as he tried to sweep. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka Jayawickrama struck again to surprise Virat Kohli (13) with a delivery that turned sharply and kept low, trapping him lbw in identical fashion to his dismissal in the first innings. Kohli gave a wry smile as silence descended on the M Chinnaswamy Stadium with a near-capacity crowd hoping to see the former captain and star of the IPL franchise end his century drought. But Pant took the game away from the Lankans by going after the bowling as soon as he walked to the crease, bringing up his fifty with seven fours and two sixes. Made from 28 balls, his half-century was the fastest by an Indian batsman, breaking the record set by Kapil Dev 40 years ago, before he skied a delivery from Jayawickrama who took the catch himself. Iyer helped guide India to a lead beyond 400 with his second half-century of the match to add to his fine knock of 92 on a turning track in the first innings. With nine boundaries, Iyer looked comfortable at the crease before he was outfoxed by a Lasith Embuldeniya delivery that rapped him on the pads and sent him back to the pavilion for 67. "It was quite challenging. A kind of wicket where any ball could get you out. It will be challenging for Sri Lanka tomorrow as well," Vihari said. "I don't think we planned on bowling this evening. But because we lost wickets, we thought we could have a crack at them for 35-40 minutes." ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka Fast bowler Suranga Lakmal, playing in his final match before retirement, went wicketless in the second innings but he led the tourists off the field, with India coach Rahul Dravid also shaking his hand. Earlier, Sri Lanka had resumed day two on 86-6 but their resistance lasted only 27 minutes as Bumrah (5-24) and Ravichandran Ashwin (2-30) cleaned up the tail. Bumrah claimed his eighth five-wicket haul and his first on home soil on a pitch heavily favouring spinners.

Half centuries from Iyer, Pant put India in driver's seat as SL ends day 2 on 28-1 chasing 447

Shreyas Iyer who played a pivotal role in taking India's total to 252 in the first innings of the second Test revealed how much the half-century on Day 1 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium against Sri Lanka meant to him.

Iyer scored 92 off 98 balls hitting 10 fours and four sixes on Saturday.

"I personally felt that fifty was like a century. That's why I celebrated like that. It was like a century feeling for me," Shreyas Iyer said in the press conference after the end of the day's play.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-they-have-done-it-against-india-brathwaite-slams-england-for-disrespectful-tactics-vs-west-indies-461856">Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies</a>

"You saw the players who defended the ball, there was a lot of chance of nicking, and there was variable bounce on that wicket. You can't just play very negatively on that wicket and just keep defending the ball. You've got to have that positive intent when you step out on the field. The wicket is not that great. It`s obviously bowler-friendly," he added.

Iyer further pointed out that he has no regrets after missing on Test ton, saying: "It is disappointing to miss out on a hundred, but by the end of it the team had got to a fighting total. So, I have no regrets. I play for the team."

Sixteen wickets fell on an extraordinary opening day in Bengaluru as India took control of the Second Test against Sri Lanka.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-world-cup-clinical-australia-outclass-arch-rival-new-zealand-by-141-runs-461834">Women's World Cup: Clinical Australia outclass arch-rivals New Zealand by 141 runs</a>

Shreyas Iyer top-scored with an attacking 92 as India raced to 252 all-out inside the first two sessions of the day-night match.

And India's quick bowlers did the damage with the ball, tearing through the Sri Lankan top order as Jasprit Bumrah took 3/15 and Mohammad Shami 2/18. The visitors will resume on 86/6, still trailing by 166 runs.

Shreyas Iyer who played a pivotal role in taking India's total to 252 in the first innings of the second Test revealed how much the half-century on Day 1 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium against Sri Lanka meant to him.

Shreyas Iyer who played a pivotal role in taking India's total to 252 in the first innings of the second Test revealed how much the half-century on Day 1 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium against Sri Lanka meant to him. Iyer scored 92 off 98 balls hitting 10 fours and four sixes on Saturday. "I personally felt that fifty was like a century. That's why I celebrated like that. It was like a century feeling for me," Shreyas Iyer said in the press conference after the end of the day's play. ALSO READ: Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies "You saw the players who defended the ball, there was a lot of chance of nicking, and there was variable bounce on that wicket. You can't just play very negatively on that wicket and just keep defending the ball. You've got to have that positive intent when you step out on the field. The wicket is not that great. It`s obviously bowler-friendly," he added. Iyer further pointed out that he has no regrets after missing on Test ton, saying: "It is disappointing to miss out on a hundred, but by the end of it the team had got to a fighting total. So, I have no regrets. I play for the team." Sixteen wickets fell on an extraordinary opening day in Bengaluru as India took control of the Second Test against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: Women's World Cup: Clinical Australia outclass arch-rivals New Zealand by 141 runs Shreyas Iyer top-scored with an attacking 92 as India raced to 252 all-out inside the first two sessions of the day-night match. And India's quick bowlers did the damage with the ball, tearing through the Sri Lankan top order as Jasprit Bumrah took 3/15 and Mohammad Shami 2/18. The visitors will resume on 86/6, still trailing by 166 runs.

Felt like a century, says Shreyas Iyer on raising his bat after half-century in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah bagged his maiden five-wicket haul in Tests at home during Day 2's play between India and Sri Lanka in the ongoing pink-ball encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Bumrah wreaked havoc on the Sri Lankan batting line-up with the pink ball as the visitors were bundled out on a paltry 109 in response to India's first-innings total of 252 runs.

Bumrah struck early during Sri Lanka's first innings on Day 2 to draw the first blood for India by dismissing opener Kusal Mendis before getting rid of no.3 Lahiru Thirimanne cheaply on 8 off 6 balls. He then went on to complete his five-wicket haul by picking up the wickets of Angelo Mathews, Niroshan Dickwella and Lasith Embuldeniya.

<h2>Best figures by an Indian bowler against Sri Lanka in Tests</h2>

Bumrah finished with figures of 5/24 during Sri Lanka's first innings, recording the best figures by an Indian bowler against the visitors in the longest format of the game. He bettered Ishant Sharma's 5/54 against Sri Lanka at the SSC Ground in Colombo in 2015.

Indian bowlers with best figures against Sri Lanka in Tests:

5/24-Jasprit Bumrah Bengaluru 2022 
5/54- Ishant Sharma SSC Colombo 2015 
5/72- Venkatesh Prasad Kandy 2001 
5/72 Zaheer Khan CCI Mumbai 2009

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-joins-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-in-elite-list-with-92-run-knock-in-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-461821">Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in elite list with 92-run knock in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

Bumrah also became only the fourth Indian bowler to pick up a five-wicket haul in a pink-ball Test match. He is the fourth pacer overall to achieve the feat as he joined the likes of Ishant, Umesh Yadav and Axar Patel in the elite list of bowlers with a fifer in a day-night Test match.

Indians with five-wicket hauls in pink-ball Tests:

Jasprit Bumrah- 5/24 vs Sri Lanka- 2022 (Bengaluru) 
Axar Patel- 6/38 vs England- 2021 (Ahmedabad) 
Axar Patel- 5/32 vs England - 2021 (Ahmedabad) 
Ishant Sharma - 5/22 vs Bangladesh - 2019 (Kolkata) 
Umesh Yadav - 5/53 vs Bangladesh- 2019 (Kolkata)

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-they-have-done-it-against-india-brathwaite-slams-england-for-disrespectful-tactics-vs-west-indies-461856">Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies</a>

India amassed a healthy lead of 143 runs after bundling out Sri Lanka for just 109 runs and are currently in a strong position in the second Test as the hosts aim for a 2-0 clean sweep. India had hammered Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah bagged his maiden five-wicket haul in Tests at home during Day 2's play between India and Sri Lanka in the ongoing pink-ball encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah bagged his maiden five-wicket haul in Tests at home during Day 2's play between India and Sri Lanka in the ongoing pink-ball encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Bumrah wreaked havoc on the Sri Lankan batting line-up with the pink ball as the visitors were bundled out on a paltry 109 in response to India's first-innings total of 252 runs. Bumrah struck early during Sri Lanka's first innings on Day 2 to draw the first blood for India by dismissing opener Kusal Mendis before getting rid of no.3 Lahiru Thirimanne cheaply on 8 off 6 balls. He then went on to complete his five-wicket haul by picking up the wickets of Angelo Mathews, Niroshan Dickwella and Lasith Embuldeniya. Best figures by an Indian bowler against Sri Lanka in Tests Bumrah finished with figures of 5/24 during Sri Lanka's first innings, recording the best figures by an Indian bowler against the visitors in the longest format of the game. He bettered Ishant Sharma's 5/54 against Sri Lanka at the SSC Ground in Colombo in 2015. Indian bowlers with best figures against Sri Lanka in Tests: 5/24-Jasprit Bumrah Bengaluru 2022 5/54- Ishant Sharma SSC Colombo 2015 5/72- Venkatesh Prasad Kandy 2001 5/72 Zaheer Khan CCI Mumbai 2009 Also Read: Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in elite list with 92-run knock in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka Bumrah also became only the fourth Indian bowler to pick up a five-wicket haul in a pink-ball Test match. He is the fourth pacer overall to achieve the feat as he joined the likes of Ishant, Umesh Yadav and Axar Patel in the elite list of bowlers with a fifer in a day-night Test match. Indians with five-wicket hauls in pink-ball Tests: Jasprit Bumrah- 5/24 vs Sri Lanka- 2022 (Bengaluru) Axar Patel- 6/38 vs England- 2021 (Ahmedabad) Axar Patel- 5/32 vs England - 2021 (Ahmedabad) Ishant Sharma - 5/22 vs Bangladesh - 2019 (Kolkata) Umesh Yadav - 5/53 vs Bangladesh- 2019 (Kolkata) Also Read: Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies India amassed a healthy lead of 143 runs after bundling out Sri Lanka for just 109 runs and are currently in a strong position in the second Test as the hosts aim for a 2-0 clean sweep. India had hammered Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Jasprit Bumrah bags maiden Test fifer at home, records best figures by an Indian against Sri Lanka

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was once again dismissed by a spinner as his struggles against spin continued in the second Test.

India and Sri Lanka locked horns in the second and final Test of the two-match series in Bengaluru on Saturday. India won the toss and opted to bat first in the pink-ball game and the hosts got off to a poor start as they lost their openers Mayank Agarwal (4) and Rohit Sharma (15) cheaply.&nbsp;

Kohli, who came out to bat at number 4, posted a 47-run stand for the third wicket with Hanuma Vihari (31) before the latter was dismissed in the 27th over to leave India reeling on 76/3. Kohli was cautious in his approach and was looking to play a big knock but ended up getting trapped lbw by De Silva on 23 off 48 balls.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-bad-patch-has-gone-for-too-long-ex-pakistan-captain-backs-kohli-to-end-his-century-drought-soon-461571">'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon</a>

The former Indian skipper had no answer to De Silva's excellent delivery which was almost unplayable as it kept low after hitting the ground. Kohli was left in disbelief after being stunned by the spinner and his reaction soon went viral on social media.

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India's top-order crumbled on Day 1 as the spin assisted spinners. Shreyas Iyer was the lone fighter for India as he notched up his half-century to take the team's total beyond the 250-run mark after the likes of Kohli (23), Rohit (15), Agarwal (4) and Rishabh Pant (39) failed to make an impact.

Iyer missed out on a deserved hundred by just 8 runs as he notched up a brilliant knock of 92 runs to help India post 252 runs on the board in their first innings. The onus will now be on the Indian bowlers to bundle out Sri Lanka cheaply in their first innings to keep the hosts in the game.

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was once again dismissed by a spinner as his struggles against spin continued in the second Test. India and Sri Lanka locked horns in the second and final Test of the two-match series in Bengaluru on Saturday. India won the toss and opted to bat first in the pink-ball game and the hosts got off to a poor start as they lost their openers Mayank Agarwal (4) and Rohit Sharma (15) cheaply. Kohli, who came out to bat at number 4, posted a 47-run stand for the third wicket with Hanuma Vihari (31) before the latter was dismissed in the 27th over to leave India reeling on 76/3. Kohli was cautious in his approach and was looking to play a big knock but ended up getting trapped lbw by De Silva on 23 off 48 balls. Also Read: 'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon The former Indian skipper had no answer to De Silva's excellent delivery which was almost unplayable as it kept low after hitting the ground. Kohli was left in disbelief after being stunned by the spinner and his reaction soon went viral on social media. Watch video: pic.twitter.com/KGdnKaijZx — Rishobpuant (@rishobpuant) March 12, 2022 × Also Read: 'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal India's top-order crumbled on Day 1 as the spin assisted spinners. Shreyas Iyer was the lone fighter for India as he notched up his half-century to take the team's total beyond the 250-run mark after the likes of Kohli (23), Rohit (15), Agarwal (4) and Rishabh Pant (39) failed to make an impact. Iyer missed out on a deserved hundred by just 8 runs as he notched up a brilliant knock of 92 runs to help India post 252 runs on the board in their first innings. The onus will now be on the Indian bowlers to bundle out Sri Lanka cheaply in their first innings to keep the hosts in the game.

WATCH: Virat Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. On a track that was assisting the bowlers, Iyer emerged as the top scorer for India with a brilliant knock of 92 runs off just 98 balls.

After opting to bat first in the second Test against Sri Lanka, India's top order struggled against the pink ball as the uneven bounce on the pitch made it trickier for them. The likes of skipper Rohit Sharma (15), Mayank Agarwal (4), Virat Kohli (23) and Hanuma Vihari (31) all failed to make an impact.

India were left reeling at 86/4 in the 28th over when Iyer arrived in the middle and went on to play a gritty knock battling the tough conditions. He missed out on his century by just 8 runs but managed to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on the board in their first innings.

With the help of his 92-run-knock, Iyer also joined the likes of Kohli and Rohit in an elite list as he became only the third Indian player to score a half-century in a pink-ball Test match for India. Kohli remains the only player with a century in a pink-ball game with Iyer now India's second-highest scorer in a day-night Test behind the former skipper.

Highest score by Indian players in pink-ball Tests:

136 - Virat Kohli vs Bangladesh 2019 
92 - Shreyas Iyer vs Sri Lanka 2022 
74 - Virat Kohli vs Australia 2020 
66 -&nbsp;Rohit Sharma vs England 2021

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-test-dn-bowlers-put-hosts-in-strong-position-as-visitors-tumble-at-866-on-day-1-461738">India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd Test: Bowlers put hosts in strong position as visitors tumble at 86/6 on Day 1</a>

Kohli's last century in international cricket was in the pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in November 2019. The former India skipper has since struggled to reach the three-figure mark across formats. On Saturday, Kohli was dismissed by Sri Lankan spinner&nbsp;Dhananjaya de Silva on 23 in India's first innings of the pink-ball Test.

Riding on Iyer's 92 and Rishabh Pant's crucial knock of 39 runs off just 26 balls, India managed to cross the 250-run mark in their first innings on Saturday before the hosts wreaked havoc with the ball against Sri Lanka in their first innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-in-disbelief-as-dhananjaya-de-silva-stuns-indian-star-with-unplayable-delivery-in-2nd-test-461675">WATCH: Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test</a>

The visitors lost wickets at regular intervals in their first innings as they were reduced to 86/6 at stumps on Day 2, trailing India's first-innings total by 166 runs.

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. On a track that was assisting the bowlers, Iyer emerged as the top scorer for India with a brilliant knock of 92 runs off just 98 balls. After opting to bat first in the second Test against Sri Lanka, India's top order struggled against the pink ball as the uneven bounce on the pitch made it trickier for them. The likes of skipper Rohit Sharma (15), Mayank Agarwal (4), Virat Kohli (23) and Hanuma Vihari (31) all failed to make an impact. India were left reeling at 86/4 in the 28th over when Iyer arrived in the middle and went on to play a gritty knock battling the tough conditions. He missed out on his century by just 8 runs but managed to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on the board in their first innings. With the help of his 92-run-knock, Iyer also joined the likes of Kohli and Rohit in an elite list as he became only the third Indian player to score a half-century in a pink-ball Test match for India. Kohli remains the only player with a century in a pink-ball game with Iyer now India's second-highest scorer in a day-night Test behind the former skipper. Highest score by Indian players in pink-ball Tests: 136 - Virat Kohli vs Bangladesh 2019 92 - Shreyas Iyer vs Sri Lanka 2022 74 - Virat Kohli vs Australia 2020 66 - Rohit Sharma vs England 2021 Also Read: India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd Test: Bowlers put hosts in strong position as visitors tumble at 86/6 on Day 1 Kohli's last century in international cricket was in the pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in November 2019. The former India skipper has since struggled to reach the three-figure mark across formats. On Saturday, Kohli was dismissed by Sri Lankan spinner Dhananjaya de Silva on 23 in India's first innings of the pink-ball Test. Riding on Iyer's 92 and Rishabh Pant's crucial knock of 39 runs off just 26 balls, India managed to cross the 250-run mark in their first innings on Saturday before the hosts wreaked havoc with the ball against Sri Lanka in their first innings. Also Read: WATCH: Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test The visitors lost wickets at regular intervals in their first innings as they were reduced to 86/6 at stumps on Day 2, trailing India's first-innings total by 166 runs.

Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in elite list with 92-run knock in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka were reduced to 86-6 in response to India's 252 on day one of the second test, leaving the hosts 166 runs ahead so far in the day-night game played in front of a near-capacity crowd at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.

On a pitch that offered turn and variable bounce, Sri Lanka's spinners thrived in the first two sessions, but Shreyas Iyer was unperturbed and top-scored with 92 after India won the toss and opted to bat first.

While Lasith Embuldeniya (3-94) and Praveen Jayawickrama (3-81) constantly troubled the Indian batsmen, Iyer smashed 10 fours and four sixes before he became the last wicket to fall, stumped eight runs short of a second test century.

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"My plan when I went into bat was to cut down the spin... to spoil the bowler's line and length," Iyer told reporters.

"The wicket showed players who defended the ball had chances of getting out, the wicket had variable bounce.

"You need to have that positive intent because the wicket was bowler-friendly.

"Obviously I'm disappointed on missing out on a 100 but from a team's perspective we got a fighting total. I don't have any regrets... I personally felt getting a 50 was like a century."

In response, Sri Lanka's top order collapsed to 28-4 as India's Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami proved there was enough life in the pitch to assist the quicks as well after Lanka's pacers picked up only one wicket between them.

Bumrah (3-15) dismissed Kusal Mendis and Lahiru Thirimanne in quick succession early on, with both edging to Iyer in the slips.

Shami then struck with his very first delivery when he broke through the defence of skipper Dimuth Karunaratne to hit the off-stump before Dhananjaya de Silva was trapped leg before.

Although the umpire initially gave De Silva not out, India successfully reviewed the decision after an animated discussion.

Bumrah then came back towards the end of the session to pick up a third, ending Angelo Mathews' resistance.

INDIA POST 252

Earlier, India's openers fell cheaply in the first session, with Mayank Agarwal run out in the second over while Embuldeniya had Rohit Sharma caught in the slips.

Playing in his 400th international game, Rohit's wicket ironically drew cheers from the Bengaluru crowd as it brought Virat Kohli -- former captain and the star of their Indian Premier League franchise -- to the crease.

Kohli and Hanuma Vihari patiently built a 47-run stand to steady the ship but left-arm spinner Jayawickrama dismissed Vihari with a rising delivery that had him caught behind.

Sri Lanka brought on a third spinner in De Silva and he struck in his first over to trap Kohli (23) leg-before with a delivery that kept surprisingly low, silencing the home crowd as the umpire raised his finger.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-replaces-virat-kohli-as-rcb-captain-ahead-of-ipl-2022-461649">Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022</a>

On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja, who scored an unbeaten 175 in the first test, was surprised by a rising delivery from Embuldeniya and caught in the slips.

Rishabh Pant also provided some fireworks with a quick-fire 39 with seven boundaries before Embuldeniya struck again with a ball that turned and smashed into the stumps.

Sri Lanka were reduced to 86-6 in response to India's 252 on day one of the second test, leaving the hosts 166 runs ahead so far in the day-night game played in front of a near-capacity crowd at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.

Sri Lanka were reduced to 86-6 in response to India's 252 on day one of the second test, leaving the hosts 166 runs ahead so far in the day-night game played in front of a near-capacity crowd at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. On a pitch that offered turn and variable bounce, Sri Lanka's spinners thrived in the first two sessions, but Shreyas Iyer was unperturbed and top-scored with 92 after India won the toss and opted to bat first. While Lasith Embuldeniya (3-94) and Praveen Jayawickrama (3-81) constantly troubled the Indian batsmen, Iyer smashed 10 fours and four sixes before he became the last wicket to fall, stumped eight runs short of a second test century. ALSO READ: CSK share stump cam video of MS Dhoni and Robin Uthappa's batting session ahead of IPL 2022 - WATCH "My plan when I went into bat was to cut down the spin... to spoil the bowler's line and length," Iyer told reporters. "The wicket showed players who defended the ball had chances of getting out, the wicket had variable bounce. "You need to have that positive intent because the wicket was bowler-friendly. "Obviously I'm disappointed on missing out on a 100 but from a team's perspective we got a fighting total. I don't have any regrets... I personally felt getting a 50 was like a century." In response, Sri Lanka's top order collapsed to 28-4 as India's Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami proved there was enough life in the pitch to assist the quicks as well after Lanka's pacers picked up only one wicket between them. Bumrah (3-15) dismissed Kusal Mendis and Lahiru Thirimanne in quick succession early on, with both edging to Iyer in the slips. Shami then struck with his very first delivery when he broke through the defence of skipper Dimuth Karunaratne to hit the off-stump before Dhananjaya de Silva was trapped leg before. Although the umpire initially gave De Silva not out, India successfully reviewed the decision after an animated discussion. Bumrah then came back towards the end of the session to pick up a third, ending Angelo Mathews' resistance. INDIA POST 252 Earlier, India's openers fell cheaply in the first session, with Mayank Agarwal run out in the second over while Embuldeniya had Rohit Sharma caught in the slips. Playing in his 400th international game, Rohit's wicket ironically drew cheers from the Bengaluru crowd as it brought Virat Kohli -- former captain and the star of their Indian Premier League franchise -- to the crease. Kohli and Hanuma Vihari patiently built a 47-run stand to steady the ship but left-arm spinner Jayawickrama dismissed Vihari with a rising delivery that had him caught behind. Sri Lanka brought on a third spinner in De Silva and he struck in his first over to trap Kohli (23) leg-before with a delivery that kept surprisingly low, silencing the home crowd as the umpire raised his finger. ALSO READ: Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022 On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja, who scored an unbeaten 175 in the first test, was surprised by a rising delivery from Embuldeniya and caught in the slips. Rishabh Pant also provided some fireworks with a quick-fire 39 with seven boundaries before Embuldeniya struck again with a ball that turned and smashed into the stumps.

India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd Test: Bowlers put hosts in strong position as visitors tumble at 86/6 on Day 1

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619).

With 436 wickets in 85 Tests, the 35-year-old Ashwin has played a huge role in India's dominance in whites, especially at home. Ahead of the second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, which will be a day-night encounter at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the wily offie shared the role of former Indian batter and women's team coach WV Raman in his growth as a cricketer.

In 2006, Ashwin made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu. Back then, Raman was the coach and the World Cup-winner recently spilled the beans on the former's role in his career in an interview posted by the BCCI.&nbsp;

“When I made my debut, I had walked into the Chepauk stadium and Raman was the coach. (He was) a hard taskmaster and a lot of people feared having conversations with him. So, we were going through this practice session one day and he was giving these fielding sessions. But the amount of pressure he used to inflict on people who were throwing the ball on the top of the stumps was incredible,” Ashwin recalled.

“If you didn't throw the ball at the top of the stumps, he would just have a go at you. This kept happening for 10 days, 12 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and we got a little comfortable. He used to prod me at the net, I used to question him and I didn't really have fear speaking in the team meeting," he further opined.

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"One day, he just took me to the side and said, 'Ashwin, you've just come into the side. I appreciate you speaking in the team meetings, but you also need to understand why we say certain things. We say it with the intent to make sure that once you go to the Indian team, you are not found wanting with your basics'. And that really opened the floodgates for me and Raman forever. Because I knew this man had the best intent in place for anybody who walked into the ground inside this team,” added Ashwin.

Ashwin is currently gearing up for India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, starting on Saturday (March 12). The veteran will hope to continue his merry run in whites and lead India to a 2-0 series whitewash over the Asian neighbours.

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619).

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619). With 436 wickets in 85 Tests, the 35-year-old Ashwin has played a huge role in India's dominance in whites, especially at home. Ahead of the second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, which will be a day-night encounter at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the wily offie shared the role of former Indian batter and women's team coach WV Raman in his growth as a cricketer. In 2006, Ashwin made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu. Back then, Raman was the coach and the World Cup-winner recently spilled the beans on the former's role in his career in an interview posted by the BCCI. “When I made my debut, I had walked into the Chepauk stadium and Raman was the coach. (He was) a hard taskmaster and a lot of people feared having conversations with him. So, we were going through this practice session one day and he was giving these fielding sessions. But the amount of pressure he used to inflict on people who were throwing the ball on the top of the stumps was incredible,” Ashwin recalled. “If you didn't throw the ball at the top of the stumps, he would just have a go at you. This kept happening for 10 days, 12 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and we got a little comfortable. He used to prod me at the net, I used to question him and I didn't really have fear speaking in the team meeting," he further opined. ALSO READ | INDvsSL: When and where to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details "One day, he just took me to the side and said, 'Ashwin, you've just come into the side. I appreciate you speaking in the team meetings, but you also need to understand why we say certain things. We say it with the intent to make sure that once you go to the Indian team, you are not found wanting with your basics'. And that really opened the floodgates for me and Raman forever. Because I knew this man had the best intent in place for anybody who walked into the ground inside this team,” added Ashwin. Ashwin is currently gearing up for India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, starting on Saturday (March 12). The veteran will hope to continue his merry run in whites and lead India to a 2-0 series whitewash over the Asian neighbours.

'He was a hard taskmaster, a lot of people feared....' - R Ashwin on ex-India batter's role in his growth

India will lock horns with the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in the second and final Test on Saturday (March 12). The Rohit Sharma-led hosts are firm favourites to inflict a series whitewash after their flawless performance over the Islanders in the opening Test in Mohali.&nbsp;

Talking about the opening clash, Rohit &amp; Co. didn't put a&nbsp;foot wrong throughout the course of the match and ended up with a comprehensive win, by an innings and 222 runs. Riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 175 not out and his nine-fer, R Ashwin and Mohammed Shami's contributions with the ball (along with the former's first-innings half-century), Rishabh Pant and Hanuma Vihari's fifties to post 574-8 decl. In reply, the Lankans were folded for 174 and 178.

Following a solid performance in Mohali, India will aim to remain unbeaten in pink-ball contests at home. So far, they have won two out of two and are in rollicking form to register another win.

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place?

The India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match is scheduled to take place on March 12, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will take place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Mohali in India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-test-rohit-sharma-eyes-virat-kohlis-record-r-ashwin-on-cusp-of-achieving-big-feats-461218">Ind vs SL, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma eyes Virat Kohli's record, R Ashwin on cusp of achieving big feats</a>

At what time India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match&nbsp;will kick off at 2:00 PM&nbsp;IST.

How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match live on TV?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match live streaming?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match&nbsp;will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

India will lock horns with the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in the second and final Test on Saturday (March 12). The Rohit Sharma-led hosts are firm favourites to inflict a series whitewash after their flawless performance over the Islanders in the opening Test in Mohali.

India will lock horns with the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka in the second and final Test on Saturday (March 12). The Rohit Sharma-led hosts are firm favourites to inflict a series whitewash after their flawless performance over the Islanders in the opening Test in Mohali. Talking about the opening clash, Rohit & Co. didn't put a foot wrong throughout the course of the match and ended up with a comprehensive win, by an innings and 222 runs. Riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 175 not out and his nine-fer, R Ashwin and Mohammed Shami's contributions with the ball (along with the former's first-innings half-century), Rishabh Pant and Hanuma Vihari's fifties to post 574-8 decl. In reply, the Lankans were folded for 174 and 178. Following a solid performance in Mohali, India will aim to remain unbeaten in pink-ball contests at home. So far, they have won two out of two and are in rollicking form to register another win. Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place? The India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match is scheduled to take place on March 12, 2022. Where is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will take place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Mohali in India. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma eyes Virat Kohli's record, R Ashwin on cusp of achieving big feats At what time India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match taking place? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will kick off at 2:00 PM IST. How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match live on TV? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match live streaming? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsSL: When and where to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details

India will be looking to continue their winning run and clean sweep the two-match Test series 2-0 when they lock horns with Sri Lanka in the second and final Test at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The second Test, which will be a pink-ball game, is all set to get underway from Saturday (March 12).

India produced a dominant display in the series-opener in Mohali to outclass the visitors by an innings and 222 runs. Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was the hero of India's thumping win as he slammed an unbeaten 175 and picked up a total of nine wickets across Sri Lanka's two innings.

The likes of Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and Hanuma Vihari also impressed as India went 1-0 up in the two-match rubber. India have included fit-again all-rounder Axar Patel in their squad ahead of the second Test in the place of Kuldeep Yadav. Axar is likely to walk into the XI and might replace Jayant Yadav, who had an average outing in the first Test.

While India will count on their spinners, the hosts also possess a deadly pace attack consisting of the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj among others. Siraj, who had missed out on a spot in the XI for the first Test, might return to the team for the pink-ball game at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharmas-team-india-look-to-seal-series-in-pink-ball-test-against-injury-hit-sri-lanka-461235">Rohit Sharma's Team India look to seal series in pink-ball Test against injury-hit Sri Lanka</a>

After a fabulous outing in Mohali, Jadeja will be hoping to continue his exceptional run in the second Test. However, the all-rounder didn't fully take part in India's training session on Thursday indicating some discomfort on his right quadricep. In case he is not fit to take the field, Axar might take Jadeja's spot in the XI, allowing India to play three pacers.

There is unlikely to be any changes in India's batting order with Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer both keeping their spots in the absence of the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja.

India's predicted playing XI for pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka:

Rohit Sharma (c), Mayank Agarwal, Hanuma Vihari, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel/Jayant Yadav/Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami

&nbsp;

India will be looking to continue their winning run and clean sweep the two-match Test series 2-0 when they lock horns with Sri Lanka in the second and final Test at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

India will be looking to continue their winning run and clean sweep the two-match Test series 2-0 when they lock horns with Sri Lanka in the second and final Test at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The second Test, which will be a pink-ball game, is all set to get underway from Saturday (March 12). India produced a dominant display in the series-opener in Mohali to outclass the visitors by an innings and 222 runs. Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was the hero of India's thumping win as he slammed an unbeaten 175 and picked up a total of nine wickets across Sri Lanka's two innings. The likes of Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and Hanuma Vihari also impressed as India went 1-0 up in the two-match rubber. India have included fit-again all-rounder Axar Patel in their squad ahead of the second Test in the place of Kuldeep Yadav. Axar is likely to walk into the XI and might replace Jayant Yadav, who had an average outing in the first Test. While India will count on their spinners, the hosts also possess a deadly pace attack consisting of the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj among others. Siraj, who had missed out on a spot in the XI for the first Test, might return to the team for the pink-ball game at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Also Read: Rohit Sharma's Team India look to seal series in pink-ball Test against injury-hit Sri Lanka After a fabulous outing in Mohali, Jadeja will be hoping to continue his exceptional run in the second Test. However, the all-rounder didn't fully take part in India's training session on Thursday indicating some discomfort on his right quadricep. In case he is not fit to take the field, Axar might take Jadeja's spot in the XI, allowing India to play three pacers. There is unlikely to be any changes in India's batting order with Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer both keeping their spots in the absence of the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja. India's predicted playing XI for pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka: Rohit Sharma (c), Mayank Agarwal, Hanuma Vihari, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel/Jayant Yadav/Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami

Axar Patel to replace Jayant Yadav? India's predicted playing XI for pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka

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