Kamindu Mendis and Pasindu Sooriyabandara led a determined Sri Lanka fightback after the follow-on. The match had been in trouble after India posted a massive total. Day four saw them keep India at bay. They stood firm. Together they reached 199 for three at tea. Sooriyabandara stayed not out on 90. Mendis joined Sooriyabandara and built a steady partnership.
Sri Lanka Cricket hopes to play additional test matches. The board is campaigning to schedule extra matches against India, England and Australia. They continue to request these important matches.