American Marconi Wireless News - Pant, Jurel half-centuries take India past 400 in Sri Lanka Test

Honours were even on the opening day after India finished on 300-5 but Pant and Jurel tilted the balance in the tourists' favour with an unbroken 112-run stand for the seventh wicket.

At the break Pant was batting on 63 and Jurel on 59.

Pant, who was forced to retire hurt on the opening day after copping a nasty blow on his forearm, resumed his innings on Monday morning and continued to bat with authority.

Sri Lanka's quicks peppered him with short-pitched bowling and the left-hander took several painful blows to the body, but refused to rein in his attacking instincts.

He pulled a Lahiru Kumara delivery for a six, with the ball sailing into the adjoining tennis courts and disappearing, forcing the umpires to call for a replacement.

It was Pant's 21st half-century in Test cricket.

Pant was well supported by Jurel, who completing his third Test half-century.

Sri Lanka's only success of the morning came with the new ball when Asitha Fernando dismissed debutant Saransh Jain for six.

Number three batsman Devdutt Padikkal posted a fine 117 on Sunday to bolster India on the opening day after the tourists lost their openers early.

India won the first Test of the two-match series by 165 runs in Galle.

A.Jones--AMWN