Sri Lanka ended the third day of the second Test in Colombo on 265 for eight, trailing India’s first-innings total by 238 runs. India declared on 503 for nine after winning the toss and choosing to bat, leaving the hosts under severe pressure following their defeat in the Galle Test. Rain forced play to end an hour early on day three, but did not ease Sri Lanka’s difficulties.

Devdutt Padikkal laid the foundation for India with 117, while Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 115 from 177 balls. Jurel built his innings patiently through singles and doubles and was briefly stalled on 99 for 21 balls before reaching his century with a risky single. He also shared a 112-run partnership with Rishabh Pant, who scored 63 from 89 balls.

Jurel added another 39 runs with spinner Manav Suthar as India accumulated their large total. Sri Lanka lost wickets regularly after beginning their reply in fading light, with rain repeatedly interrupting the Test. They will resume on the fourth day facing the prospect of an innings defeat and needing an exceptional performance to keep the series alive.