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Sri Lanka faces steep 372-run target in Galle Test against India

India has set Sri Lanka a challenging fourth-innings target of 372 runs in the ongoing Test match at Galle. The hosts have reached 84 for 4 by the end of day four, requiring another 288 runs to secure an unlikely victory.

LSN India · 18 August 2026

Sri Lanka faces steep 372-run target in Galle Test against India

India's declaration has placed Sri Lanka in a precarious position at the Galle International Stadium, with the home team needing to overcome a substantial deficit in their final innings. The target represents one of the steepest fourth-innings chases Sri Lanka has faced in recent times, setting up what promises to be a gripping climax to the match.

Sri Lanka's batting lineup will need to demonstrate both resilience and aggression to mount a successful chase. The island nation's highest successful Test run chase stands at 388 runs, meaning a 372-run pursuit would rank as their third-largest successful chase if accomplished. However, reaching that milestone would require their batsmen to maintain concentration and partnerships over the remaining playing days.

With four wickets already down and still a significant shortfall from the target, Sri Lanka faces mounting pressure. The loss of key wickets early in their innings suggests that India's bowling attack, which secured the initial advantage, may continue to pose a considerable threat. The match now hinges on whether the hosts can construct a substantial partnership or if India's bowlers will maintain their dominance.