COLOMBO, 26 August 2026 (Ghufran) — India are closing in on a comprehensive victory over Sri Lanka in the second Test after the hosts ended day four on 229-6 following the enforcement of the follow-on. Sri Lanka lead by only 16 runs with four wickets remaining. India will enter the fifth and final day hoping to complete a 2-0 series sweep. Sonal Dinusha, who scored an impressive century in Sri Lanka’s first innings, remained unbeaten on seven at stumps, with Keshara Nuwantha not out on three when rain brought an early end to play. Sri Lanka had resumed the day on 265-8 in reply to India’s declared total of 503-9. The hosts were eventually dismissed for 290 and were forced to bat again. Sri Lanka lost both opening batsmen early in their second innings, but Kamindu Mendis and Pasindu Sooriyabandara steadied the innings with a 115-run partnership for the third wicket. Sooriyabandara, who had scored 80 in the first innings, again showed excellent technique against spin, using clever footwork to counter India’s bowlers. Mendis also attacked the fast bowlers effectively during his innings of 55.With Sri Lanka still only 16 runs ahead and four wickets in hand, India remain firmly in control heading into the final day.