Kamindu Mendis and Pasindu Sooriyabandara headed a strong Sri Lanka rally after the follow-on. The match had fallen into trouble after India posted a massive total. Day four saw them keep India at bay. They showed great grit. Together they reached 199 for three at tea. Sooriyabandara remained not out on 90. Mendis joined Sooriyabandara and built a steady partnership.
Sri Lanka Cricket is aiming for additional test matches. The board is campaigning to schedule extra matches against India, England and Australia. They keep asking for these important matches.