Kamindu Mendis and Pasindu Sooriyabandara led a determined Sri Lanka fightback after the follow-on. The match was looking difficult after India set a big total. Day four saw them keep India on the back foot. They held on. Together they reached 199 for three at tea. Sooriyabandara stayed unbeaten on 90. Mendis joined Sooriyabandara and built a steady partnership.
Sri Lanka Cricket wants more test matches. The board is campaigning to add games against India, England and Australia. They are persistently seeking these key games.