India, who were asked to bat first, got off to the worst possible start when first Test double centurion Lakshya Raichandani and centurion Sagar Virk were dismissed for ducks, reducing the visitors to 0/2. Sri Lanka sensed their opportunity and Ojha reacted very maturely, absorbing the pressure and gradually taking control of the game.
The southpaw smashed an unbeaten 103 off 177 deliveries, displaying patience, solid technique and the ability to control the attack. He handled the new ball with confidence, rotated the attack effectively and capitalized on scoring opportunities to halt Sri Lanka’s ongoing momentum. His partnership with captains Yashbardhan Chauhan and Manal Chauhan changed the game. Yashbardhan contributed 78 off 89 balls while Manal remained unbeaten on 55 off 108 balls as the duo ensured that India did not lose any more wickets after their third dismissal.
Despite the early success, Sri Lanka’s bowlers struggled to break the resistance once Ojha settled down, with the left-hander growing more confident as the innings progressed. Poor lighting eventually forced the match to end early and India dominated with seven wickets.
After a drawn opening Test, Team India will be keen to build on the platform created by Ojha and post a formidable first innings total when play resumes on day two.
