Suthar-Jadeja spin web to hand India 178-run lead despite Dinusha hundred

India established a 178-run first-innings lead after bowling out Sri Lanka for 284 on Day 3 in Galle, despite a heroic maiden Test century from Sonal Dinusha.

Suthar's Dream Debut Start: Debutant Manav Suthar made an immediate impact, striking on his very first ball to dismiss Dinesh Chandimal before finishing with figures of 4 for 76. Early Host Trouble: Sri Lanka slumped to 90/5 under pressure from Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja, nullifying hopes of a strong response to India's first-innings 462.

Dinusha & Dickwella Fightback: Sonal Dinusha (100) and Niroshan Dickwella (80) mounted a brilliant 146-run partnership for the sixth wicket to avoid an immediate follow-on, sweeping India's spinners with authority.

Jadeja Reaches 350 Test Wickets: Jadeja claimed 3 for 57, including the wicket of Keshara Nuwantha—which made him only the ninth spinner in Test history to reach 350 career wickets—before trapping Dinusha late in the day. Stumps Position: Bad light curtailed play, leaving India with a 178-run lead entering Day 4.

Milestone & Follow-on Clearance: Resolute support from Prabath Jayasuriya ensured Sonal Dinusha reached his maiden Test century while simultaneously taking Sri Lanka past the follow-on mark (still trailing by 178).

Suthar Strikes Again: Right after Dinusha's milestone, Jayasuriya top-edged a slog sweep off Manav Suthar. Suthar later had Lahiru Kumara stumped to finish with 4 for 76—with all four of his wickets coming from a consistent 4–5m length zone.

Jadeja Removes Dinusha: Ravindra Jadeja returned to dismiss Dinusha with a quick delivery on the crease, wrapping up Sri Lanka's first innings for 284. Bad Light Intervention: Bad light brought an early end to Day 3, denying India 13 overs of batting and leaving 196 overs remaining in the Test to force a result.