IND vs SL: The Indian team declared its innings after scoring 503 runs for 9 wickets on the second day of the second Test match being played in Colombo. In response, by the end of the third day’s play, Sri Lanka had scored 265 runs for 8 wickets in 83.4 overs. The host team still has to score 39 more runs to avoid follow-on. In such a situation, the biggest question before India on the fourth day will be whether Sri Lanka should be allowed to follow on or the team should come out to bat again. Former cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has advised Team India to bat again.
Former Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has given his opinion regarding India’s strategy. He believes that even if Sri Lanka is unable to save the follow-on, India can bat once again instead of giving the follow-on directly. According to Pujara, India should score fast runs and declare the innings around tea time on the fourth day. After this the team may have around 110 to 120 overs to bowl out Sri Lanka. Considering the possibility of interruption in the game due to rain, this strategy can be beneficial.
It is necessary to give rest to fast bowlers
Pujara also mentioned the fatigue of Indian fast bowlers Prasidh Krishna and Mohammad Siraj. Both the bowlers have bowled a lot of overs with the new ball in the first innings of Sri Lanka. Pujara said; “The Indian team will have to bat very fast and declare the innings closer to tea time. If the Sri Lankan batsmen bat for two hours, it will be difficult for India. Hopefully they get both the wickets in an hour.”
Fitness of bowlers is important before follow on
According to Pujara, batting again will give the Indian bowlers the necessary rest. He said; “You can look at it both ways. This is my view because our bowlers are tired. Both the fast bowlers have bowled a lot with the new ball.” He also said that if Sri Lanka loses only four wickets on the fourth day, then the challenge for India may increase on the last day. Therefore, before taking the decision to follow on, it will be important to keep in mind the condition of the bowlers.