Kamindu Mendis and Pasindu Sooriyabandara led a determined Sri Lanka rally after the follow-on. The match had been in trouble after India set a big total. Day four saw them keep India on the back foot. They stood firm. Together they pushed to 199 for three at tea. Sooriyabandara stayed unbeaten on 90. Mendis joined Sooriyabandara and constructed a solid partnership.
Sri Lanka Cricket wants more test matches. The board is pushing to schedule extra matches against India, England and Australia. They are persistently seeking these important matches.