INDIA IN CONTROL

CHETESHWAR PUJARA and Ajinkya Rahane hit centuries as India took opening day honours on 344-3 at stumps against Sri Lanka in the second Test yesterday. Pujara (128) and Rahane (103) put on an unbeaten 211-run partnership for the fourth wicket to thwart Sri Lankan bowlers who struck two crucial blows in the afternoon session in Colombo. The in-form Pujara registered his 13th Test century in his landmark 50th game as Rahane fired his ninth Test hundred. The visitors, who lead the three-match series 1-0, wobbled slightly when Lokesh Rahul went for 57 and skipper Virat Kohli followed for 13 soon after lunch. Rahul, who scored his eighth Test fifty on his return from a viral fever, was run out in a mix-up with Pujara. Veteran leftarm spinner spinner Rangana Herath sent Kohli trudging back to the pavilion with a tossed-up delivery that got the edge of the captain’s bat and went to slip. Pujara and Rahane ground out the runs to deny Dinesh Chandimal’s side any more wickets during the day. Pujara, who scored 153 in the first innings of the opening Test, hit 10 fours and a six at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground. Rahane also tackled the spinners with aplomb, using his feet to great effect during his 168-ball stay at the crease so far. A tour that started back in mid-May has already seen South Africa lose one-day international and Twenty20 series to England, with the Proteas suffering a disappointing first-round exit in the Champions Trophy as well during their time in England. But victory at Old Trafford would at least ensure South Africa maintain a proud away Test record. If they are to triumph at Old Trafford – a ground where their lone Test win in eight visits came back in 1955 – they will surely need an improved showing from their top order.