Not many may recall that it has been a full eight years since Sri Lanka were last invited to engage in the premier format.
India, at that time, had more important things on hand – celebrating Sachin Tendulkar’s 20-year contribution to international cricket. Interestingly enough, the teams played on the exact same dates – November 16, November 24 and December 2.
Back in 2009, Sri Lanka came into the country ranked as No. 2 side in the world. They would catch the hosts unaware and have them tottering at 32 for 4 on the first day of the series. It would be the only thread of one-upmanship the Lankans enjoyed against MS Dhoni’s quick-to-recover team. India would next become the No. 1 side in the world.
Fast forward to 2017; Sri Lanka (ranked No. 6) caught the hosts by surprise yet again on the first day of the series. The Indian top-order knocked out at 30 for 4 (almost identical to ’09), they were eventually bowled out for 172. Again, it was the last shred of ascendency the Lankans enjoyed (in the first two Tests).
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With the series sealed in India’s favour, the third and final Test may as well serve as Sri Lanka’s last chance. Riding on small wave of confidence from their recent landmark 2-0 Test series win against Pakistan, they will be on the hunt for their first Test win in India.
India, on the other hand, will look to continue their reign of supremacy over Sri Lanka. After all, they are the No. 1 Test team in the world.
– Varun Kumar | SpreadSports
