India wrapped up their three-day warm-up fixture against the Sri Lanka Cricket XI with a convincing six-wicket victory, gaining valuable match practice ahead of the upcoming Test series. The match saw encouraging performances from several Indian players, including Devdutt Padikkal, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, and returning skipper Shubman Gill.
India’s chase was anchored by Yashasvi Jaiswal, who struck a fluent 61 off 46 balls, while Shubman Gill, returning after missing the opening day with a finger injury, looked comfortable at the crease. The chase was finished in dramatic fashion by Mohammed Siraj, who smashed three consecutive sixes in the final over to seal the win.
Earlier in the match, Devdutt Padikkal emerged as India’s biggest positive. Batting at No. 3, the left-hander remained unbeaten on 142, rescuing India after an early collapse and strengthening his case for a place in the playing XI for the opening Test. Ravindra Jadeja also impressed with a solid 63, while Manav Suthar and KL Rahul chipped in with useful contributions.
India had conceded a first-innings lead after Sri Lanka Cricket XI posted 363/8 declared, but the visitors responded strongly with the bat before producing an improved all-round display in the final innings. The warm-up match provided the team management with an opportunity to assess combinations and player form ahead of the Test series.
The match also brought positive news on the fitness front, with Shubman Gill returning to action after his finger injury scare. His availability, coupled with Padikkal’s century, Jaiswal’s aggressive knock and Siraj’s entertaining finish, gave India several encouraging takeaways before the opening Test against Sri Lanka.
