Culture & Entertainment · India Bureau
Suthar's 10-wicket haul powers India to 165-run victory over Sri Lanka
Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar claimed a match-winning 10-wicket haul as India defeated Sri Lanka by 165 runs in the first Test at Galle, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The victory marked India's 600th Test match and provided significant momentum following recent home defeats.
LSN India ·
Manav Suthar's exceptional performance with the ball has relieved India of mounting pressure in red-ball cricket, with the young left-arm spinner dismantling Sri Lanka's second innings to secure a comprehensive 165-run victory on the final day of the first Test in Galle on Wednesday.
Requiring 288 runs to make India bat again, Sri Lanka managed only 206 in their second attempt, with the hosts beginning the fifth day at 84 for four. Suthar finished with match figures of 10 wickets, including six for 55 in the second innings, accounting for the majority of Sri Lanka's dismissals as the visitors' batting lineup succumbed to his spin.
The timing of the victory proved fortuitous, as heavy rainfall swept the ground within minutes of Suthar claiming his tenth wicket, potentially cutting short any hopes of a Sri Lankan revival had the match extended further. The win at the traditionally spin-friendly Galle venue represents a significant turnaround for India following recent Test series defeats against New Zealand and South Africa at home on similarly challenging pitches.
India now leads the two-match series 1-0, with the result providing the team renewed confidence in their Test campaign. Suthar's performance underscores India's depth in spin bowling and offers a pathway forward in challenging overseas conditions.