Sri Lanka batter Pasindu Sooriyabandara has highlighted the significance of dedicated practice in overcoming a challenging start to the series against India. Sooriyabandara, who registered a golden duck in the initial match, delivered a fighting innings of 80, underscoring the importance of extended batting periods for Sri Lanka to potentially save the Test over the remaining days.
The 26-year-old, participating in only his second Test after a prolonged period in domestic cricket, emerged as a key performer in Colombo. His performance marked a notable turnaround from his difficult start in Galle. Sooriyabandara attributed his improved form to extensive practice sessions in the days leading up to the match.
Sooriyabandara shared his perspective with broadcasters before the start of Day 4, stating that recovering from a golden duck in the first match was difficult. He credited his diligent work in the nets for his improved performance. This innings holds particular importance given his journey to the international stage, having spent several seasons in Sri Lanka’s domestic circuit before making his Test debut at the age of 26. He described this milestone as both an honour and a reward for his perseverance.
He further commented on the honour and privilege of representing his country, a dream for any cricketer. Having played numerous first-class and domestic matches, he felt well-prepared for the international level. Sooriyabandara maintained his approach even when facing experienced international bowlers from India, choosing to focus on reacting to the ball rather than the bowler’s reputation.
Sooriyabandara explained his strategy of “facing the ball without facing the bowler,” emphasizing that one cannot constantly keep the names of the bowlers in mind. He noted that the wicket was turning from the outset, which was somewhat favourable for the spinners. His innings was played on a surface that increasingly assisted spin, requiring Sri Lanka’s batters to display patience and application against India’s slow bowlers.
With Sri Lanka still under pressure as the fourth day commenced, Sooriyabandara acknowledged the significant challenge ahead for the hosts to avoid defeat. He believes that spending as much time as possible at the crease over the remaining days is crucial for his team. He stated that the team needs to perform well in the upcoming two days and bat for extended periods to aim for a draw or a win.
Partnership Building
In the ongoing match, Kamindu Mendis and Pasindu Sooriyabandara have formed a crucial partnership. Mendis, after missing a sweep shot off Jain, saw a leg before wicket appeal turned down, with Gill opting against a review. Mendis then capitalised on a wide half-volley, lofting Jain inside out over the covers for a boundary, demonstrating his positive batting approach.
The umpire’s decision on the LWB appeal was deemed accurate, as the impact was clearly outside the line of the off-stump. Mendis continued to score, hitting Jain past point for two runs, which helped Sri Lanka reach 106/2 in 30 overs. India missed an opportunity to secure a wicket when Sooriyabandara attempted a slog sweep against Ravindra Jadeja and miscued it.
Mohammed Siraj, running back from mid-on, was unable to judge the flight of the ball and missed the catch. Sooriyabandara then stepped out and hit Jadeja inside out over the covers for a boundary, completing his second consecutive fifty of the match. In the subsequent over, Mendis nudged Jain off his pads for three runs, bringing the deficit under the 100-run mark. This also propelled the third-wicket partnership past the 50-run mark.
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Source: m.rediff.com
Arjun Verma covers business and the economy for Latest News, explaining markets, technology and finance in clear, simple terms.
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