The fightback

Two days ago, I blogged about the poor overseas records of subcontinental teams, after getting themselves in a spot of bother, both Sri Lanka (against England) and India (against West Indies) have clawed their way back into a position from which they can push for victory.

At the end of the third day, Sri Lanka lead by 288 runs with 3 wickets in hand. The lead was predictably set up by the experienced Kumar Sangakkara with 66, and the 19 year old Chamara Kapugedera, who is playing in just his second Test match, finished the day on 50 not out. Mahela Jayawardene made 45, before he chased perhaps the widest delivery of the day and was dismissed. Upset at wasting his start, Jayawardene smashed his leg stump with frustration. With a few more wickets in hand, and Murali looming in the fourth innings, it now seems likely that Sri Lanka will wrap up this match and square the series. Hardly believable given what transpired at Lord's and Edgbaston in the first two Tests.

After two poor days in the field, India managed to work their way back into the match, with Mumbai opener Wasim Jaffer leading the way. After keeping the West Indies' first innings lead to 130 - Virender Sehwag took three wickets - Jaffer batted with application to reach his second Test century. He walked off the field with his captain, not out on 113, and he helped to transform the 130 run deficit into a 85 run lead. With Fidel Edwards, Windies' quickest bowler, sidelined by a hamstring injury, India should be able to gain a significant lead before unleashing Anil Kumble on a fifth day pitch.