Mohammed Siraj delivered a stunning finish in Colombo, propelling India to a six-wicket win over Sri Lanka Cricket XI on the final day of their three-day warm-up clash on August 9. Chasing a challenging 207-run target set over 45 overs, India sealed the win on the back of Siraj’s explosive unbeaten cameo, where he blasted 32 runs from just 15 deliveries to cap off a dominant run chase. When India needed 16 runs off the last over, it was Siraj who stepped up and tonked three consecutive sixes to seal the deal for India.
Mohammed Siraj wins it for India with 3 sixes in last over vs SLC XI
Heading into the final two overs with 23 runs still required, the contest appeared destined for a stalemate. However, Mohammed Siraj dramatically altered the outcome. After launching Sonal Dinusha over the ropes in the 44th over, the fast bowler produced a sensational display of power-hitting against Keshara Nuwantha in the final over, launching three massive sixes to various parts of the venue to seal the chase in style. His explosive, unbeaten cameo yielded 32 runs off just 15 deliveries.
ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: 'If the call comes...': Bhuvneshwar Kumar's big statement on his India comeback hype
The groundwork for the successful pursuit was laid earlier in the innings by the top order. Yashasvi Jaiswal provided a solid foundation with a fluent 61 before retiring hurt, while skipper Shubman Gill took to the crease in the second innings to construct a composed 44. Siraj then partnered with Saransh Jain to apply the finishing touches, steering India safely across the line.
Devdutt Padikkal lays the foundation of India's triumph
Earlier, Devdutt Padikkal firmly staked his claim for the opening Test with a masterly, unbeaten 142 on Day 2, headlining India's first-innings declaration at 357/8 after 90 overs. Taking full advantage of easing pitch conditions, the elegant left-hander effortlessly filled the void left by injured top-order starter Sai Sudharsan. Padikkal's chanceless knock was laced with 18 boundaries, featuring crisp cover drives, authoritative pulls, and his signature 'Nataraja' shot against the seamers. He received solid support from veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who retired out after a gritty 63, while newcomer Manav Suthar contributed a useful 41 on his maiden overseas outing. Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel, however, failed to capitalizing on the favorable surface.
ALSO READ: BCCI awaits government clearance for Bangladesh white-ball series
The foundation for India's imposing total was set after an early setback, with Yashasvi Jaiswal departing for a duck on the second ball of the day to left-arm pacer Vishwa Fernando. KL Rahul (40) joined Padikkal to construct a fluent 96-run partnership for the second wicket, setting the tone for the rest of the innings. In response, Sri Lanka XI declared their own second innings at 200, driven by key contributions from Nishan Madushka (63) and Nipun Dhananjaya (46). Pacers Gurnoor Brar and spinner Ravindra Jadeja led the charge for the Indian bowling attack, claiming two wickets each to restrict the hosts and set up the tense final-day chase.