India are in a commanding position in the second Test against Sri Lanka, but weather could become the biggest hurdle in their push for victory on Day 3. After rain interruptions affected the second day's play, the forecast for Tuesday, August 25, again points to cloudy conditions and showers in Colombo.
India declared their first innings at 503/9, with Dhruv Jurel unbeaten on 115. Rishabh Pant also made a valuable contribution with a 63 off 89 balls, while Devdutt Padikkal had earlier scored 117.
Sri Lanka's reply then suffered an early setback. Prasidh Krishna dismissed Lahiru Udana for one, while Manav Suthar trapped Prabath Jayasuriya lbw for two as the hosts slipped to 8/2. Sri Lanka therefore began Day 3 trailing India by 495 runs in the latest end-of-day position reported after Monday's play.
Colombo Weather Forecast for Day 3
According to the AccuWeather forecast cited in the available reports, Colombo is expected to remain largely cloudy on Tuesday, with showers possible during different parts of the day.
The morning forecast puts the temperature around 31 degrees Celsius, with an 82 per cent chance of precipitation. The afternoon could see a 56 per cent precipitation probability, while the chance is expected to rise to 86 per cent in the evening. Cloud cover could reach around 98 per cent later in the day, with humidity around 79 per cent.
The weather threat is significant because rain has already interrupted proceedings in the match. Another series of stoppages could reduce the amount of cricket available to India as they attempt to bowl Sri Lanka out and build a position from which they can force a result.
India in Strong Position Despite Weather Concern
India's position remains heavily in their favour. The visitors have already put 503 runs on the board and removed two Sri Lankan batters cheaply.
For Sri Lanka, the immediate priority will be survival. Kamil Mishara was unbeaten when play ended, with the hosts having lost two wickets in only three overs. India, meanwhile, will want their bowlers to make the most of whatever time is available on the field.
The bigger question for Day 3 is therefore not India's advantage but how much uninterrupted cricket the weather allows. With rain forecast at multiple stages, every lost session could become increasingly important as the Test moves towards its final two days.
India currently lead the Test series 1-0 after winning the opening Test in Galle by 165 run
.jpg)
