Sri Lanka takes control

Sri Lanka began their bid to seal a third successive home series win against India by closing today’s first of the third Test well in command on 293 for 4 at P. Sara Oval.



Kumar Sangakkara led the way with a captain's knock of 75, Thilan Samaraweera was unbeaten on 65 when bad light stopped play, and Mahela Jayawardene was out for 56 to a disputable leg before wicket decision.



Anjelo Mathews was with Samaraweera at stumps on 26 not out.



Left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha Ojha has returned the best bowling figures for India with 2 for 78.



Meanwhile, India star Sachin Tendulkar became the most capped test cricketer when he started his 169th match, surpassing former Australia captain Steve Waugh's record of 168.



The 37-year-old Tendulkar, who made his test debut at 16, holds most of the game's major batting records.



Sri Lanka lead the series 1-0 after winning the first test in Galle by 10 wickets. India must win this match to avoid losing a third series in Sri Lanka since 2001