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With India set to face Sri Lanka in their final Test series at home before overseas assignments, HT takes a look at key battles over the next few weeks

VIRAT KOHLI V RANGANA HERATH

In a battle of the aces, Sri Lankan spin wizard Rangana Herath could find fulfilling his wish of winning a Test in India tough. Herath will have to breach the wall in the form of Virat Kohli to live his dream, especially with the India skipper in rich form across formats.

SHIKHAR DHAWAN V DILRUWAN PERERA

Making a comeback to the Test team, Dhawan will be keen to build on the form he has shown of late. On favourable tracks, where his aim would be to bat for long, Dhawan’s battle with Perera — Sri Lanka’s second best wicket-taker this year with 26 dismissals — will be the key.

CHETESHWAR PUJARA V LAKSHAN SANDAKAN

Before embarking on the tour of South Africa, Pujara, who has warmed up with a couple of Ranji centuries, will want to make the most of the opportunity. In the middle order, he will also be presented with a different challenge against Chinaman bowler Sandakan.

R ASHWIN V ANGELO MATHEWS

India’s premier bowler will be in a battle with arguably the best batsman in Sri Lanka’s ranks, who will be expected to fire on his return to the side. Mathews, who carries the responsibility of leading the batting on this tour, is set for some intense battles with Ashwin.

RAVINDRA JADEJA V DINESH CHANDIMAL

The unrelenting Jadeja will present the toughest challenge to Sri Lanka captain Chandimal, who seeks nothing but consistency from his team. Jadeja will look for a repeat of his performances at home before overseas assignments start in 2018, and push his case as an all-rounder.