Sri Lanka battles uphill task in Galle Test against India

Sri Lanka's batsmen are fighting to keep alive slim hopes of an improbable Test victory against India at the Galle International Stadium on Wednesday. After India's first-innings total of 372, the home side has made steady progress in their pursuit, reaching 175 for six by the lunch interval on day five.

The loss of six wickets indicates Sri Lanka have faced considerable difficulty navigating the Indian bowling attack. With 197 runs still required for victory and only four wickets remaining, the mathematical odds appear heavily stacked against the hosts clinching an upset win.

The match at the historic Galle venue marks the start of the bilateral Test series between the two South Asian neighbours. Sri Lanka's continued resistance on the final day demonstrates their determination, though India's bowling unit has maintained strong pressure throughout the second innings.

The outcome of this encounter will set the tone for the remainder of the Test series, with both teams seeking to establish dominance in what promises to be a competitive campaign.