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India vs Sri Lanka, 1st Test: Rangana Herath hopes for turn on final day

Left-arm spinner Rangana Herath credited the pacers for their brilliant performance which enabled the batsmen to gain a substantial first-innings lead of 122 runs.

India lead by 49 runs © AFP
India lead by 49 runs © AFP

Left-arm spinner Rangana Herath credited the pacers for their brilliant performance which enabled the batsmen to gain a substantial first-innings lead of 122 runs. “The whole credit should go to the pacers. Compared to the first two days, the wicket was much better today and that’s why I got some runs luckily, we got a 122-run lead,” the 39-year-old said.

His knock of 67 went a long way in Sri Lanka getting a 120-run plus lead.

“I just tried to stay positive and look to play some shots,” he said about his 105-ball knock.

Sri Lanka replied strongly with 294 after India were bowled out for 172 in their first innings. But at the close of play, India took an advantage 171 for1 after an opening 166 runs partnership between Shikhar Dhawan (94) and Lokesh Rahul (73 batting).

“It is a much better wicket compared to the last two days. We still have one day to go. It is going to be a good game of cricket.”

The world’s leading wicket-taker in left-arm spin however returned disappointed in bowling as he returned wicketless after 10-1-41-0.

“As a spinner, I can’t say I felt good bowling on this wicket. You would always like to see some turn. I don’t see much turn here. When you get into fourth innings I hope there would be some assistance for spinners,” he concluded.

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