In a series of surprising moments, a controversial moment unfolded on Day 4 of the Test between India and Sri Lanka after Dhruv Jurel completed a low catch to remove Lahiru Udara. Facing Manav Suthar, Udara attempted to defend extremely close to the ground. The decision was referred to the third umpire, where a decision was given in India's favor. However, the decision did not go down well with the Sri Lankan camp, as Udara and members of the team's support staff expressed their disappointment over the wicket.
Controversy on Jurel's catch
The incident took place in the 22nd over of Sri Lanka's second innings when Manav Suthar found the outside edge of Udara's bat with his fourth ball. Jurel who was deployed at the short gully grabbed the ball just inches above the turf. The catch was sent to the third umpire, with replays showing one of Jurel's finger underneath the ball. However, the zoomed-in footage also appeared to be doubtful over whether the ball may have made contact with the ground.
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After checking the available footage from different angles, third umpire Ravindra Wimalasiri said he was convinced that Jurel's fingers were underneath the ball and ruled Udara out, handing Sri Lanka their fourth wicket. The decision immediately sparked debate across social media platforms
India need only four wickets
Despite being bowled out for just 193 in the second innings, India's first innings advantage helped them set Sri Lanka a massive 372-run target. The hosts endured a poor start to the chase with Mohammed Siraj giving India their first breakthrough in the seventh over before Manav Suthar dismissed Pasindu Sooriya Bandara for a golden duck to leave Sri Lanka reeling at 14/2. Suthar struck once again later in the innings, while Prasidh Krishna also joined the party as India continued to tighten their grip on the clash.
However, Sri Lanka managed to reach 84/4 at stumps on Day 4, with skipper Dhananjaya de Silva unbeaten on 31 and Sonal Dinusha not out on 24. Suthar finished the day with two wickets, while Siraj and Krishna claimed one each. India will enter the final day needing six more wickets before Sri Lanka score the remaining 288 runs to win the first Test.