Sri Lanka vs India 2nd Test 2008: Harbhajan Singh claimed 6-102

If anyone ask you about the second test between Sri Lanka and India at Galle International Stadium that who is dominating the series what will be your answer. I know it is difficult to say because neither hosts Sri Lanka nor tourist India in the driving seat at the end of the day three. In reply to India’s first inning total of 329, Sri Lanka got all out short of 37 runs. Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh played key role taking 6-102 ending Sri Lanka for 292 in their first innings supported by leg-spinner Anil Kumble, who took 3-81. Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene bravely faced Indian attack with wicket-keeper Jayawardene and made top-score with a responsible 86 on a spin friendly pitch. Harbhajan Singh, who took four wickets yesterday, claimed two more in third day and haul of his 22^nd five or more wickets in a Test innings. He first broke through the wicket of wicket-keeper caught by Venkatsai Laxman at short-leg. Then no one could make pair with skipper, who lone battled against Indian attack. It was his first wicket in third day then took the last wicket of Muralitharan and give 37-run lead in first innings.

Indian captain Anil Kumble who remained wicket less in first innings took his first and most important wicket of Mahela Jayawardene, who seemed threat for India team, among three wickets for 81. After losing fifth wicket tail ender failed to play big innings that’s why Sri Lanka lost last five for 77 runs.

India team is now batting in their second innings. After losing four wickets they have scored 200 runs and make 237 runs lead over Sri Lanka. Both Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman are not out at stumps. The fate of match result is depending much more on them how long they can carry the innings.

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