Dilshan helps Sri Lanka gain edge in 3rd Test

Captain leads from the front as Australia bowlers made to toil.

COLOMBO: Captain Tillakaratne Dilshan inspired Sri Lanka’s tenacious batting display as the hosts took charge of the third Test against Australia in Colombo.

Sri Lanka, seeking a series-levelling win, closed the third day’s play on 428 for six in their first-innings, a lead of 112 runs over Australia’s 316.

Dilshan struck a rousing 83, Kumar Sangakkara made 79 in his 100th Test appearance, Mahela Jayawardene hit 51 and Angelo Mathews returned unbeaten on 85 as Sri Lanka led Australia for the first time in the series.

Prasanna Jayawardene chipped in with 47, sharing a sixth-wicket stand of 81 with Mathews that increased Australia’s frustration in the field on a hot, humid day.

Dilshan hammered 14 boundaries and put on 121 for the fifth wicket with Mathews after Australia had threatened to take charge. The tourists had grabbed the crucial wickets of Sangakkara and Jayawardene after Sri Lanka resumed at 166 for two before Dilshan started dominating proceedings.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 19^th,  2011.