Kohli’s 50th international century not enough for India
India ca pt ainViratK oh li scored his 50th international century but had to settle for a draw in the first Test as Sri Lanka somehow managed to stave off defeat in a dramatic finale in Kolkata.
After Kohli’s rapid 104 not out helped set Sri Lanka a token 231 to win in just over a session, India’ s bowlers very nearly snatched an incredible win for the hosts.
They had reduced Sri Lanka to 75 for seven–as well as seeing two late out verdicts overturned on review–before fading light led to the umpires calling an end to proceedings at around 4: 30pm local time.
Bhuvnesh war Kumar fin- ished with impressive figures off our for eight off 11 overs, while his fellows ea mers Mohammed Shami ( two for 34) and Umesh Yadav ( one for 25) provided the back- up.
With those three players also sharing all 10 Sri Lanka first- innings wickets between them, India’s spinners finished the match wicketless.
Earlier, India, having started the final day on 171 for one and leading by 49, powered their way to 352 for eight declared with Kohli dominating after opener Lokesh Rahul had fallen early for 79.
K oh li brought up his 18 th Test century–and 50 th for his country in all formats– with a six before immediately declaring.
He had struck 12 fours and two sixes in total, having faced 119 balls.