Sri Lanka vs. West Indies- News and Predictions- Second Test

Darren Bravo hit a defiant 80 but fell just before the close of play on the third day as Sri Lanka tightened their grip on the second Test against West Indies in Colombo.

The visitors looked set to end the day with just three down as the gloom set over Premadasa Stadium, however an inspired spell by part-timer Tillakaratne Dilshan minutes before stumps proved their undoing.

Sri Lanka closed out the day 222 runs ahead, and although most likely not having the ability to make the West Indies follow on, they will fancy their chances at taking this match.

Bravo once again, in his short career so far, showed glimpses of brilliance in his innings proving difficult to tie down and happy to settle into a steady rhythm of singles for the better part of the afternoon. He fell in the penultimate over of the day to a magnificent catch by Herath.

Earlier in the day Sri Lanka headed out intent to step up the run rate early on in an attempt to force a win, declaring at 387 for 9.

Kumar Sangakkara departed early, but not before one again showing the class that makes him a leading figure in the game. He contributed a fine 150, and is a clear winner of the man of the match award.

Gayle began his team's innings with some trademark strikes off the wayward Suranga Lakmal, with his short stay purveying all the arrogance that was present in his triple hundred earlier in the series.

He was caught on the square-leg boundary by Angelo Matthews for 31- at the same time giving Suranga Lakmal his first test scalp.

Sri Lanka capitalised, and with the spinners teasing away at off, the pace attack played their part with the short ball.

The bookmakers are calling this one highly in favour of a draw, however there is serious money to be made if taking your chances with the home side.

Rest assured that Sri Lanka will be heading out for the win, with the visitors attempting to salvage a draw at the very best.

Sri Lanka might come under criticism for their bowling attack, however if  Mendis is to find his rhythm this one could turn ugly for the tourists very quickly.

With Chivnarine Chanderpaul already in the pavillion, there is very little substance to this often vulnerable Caribbean line-up.

This tail will crumble quickly, while at the same time making a flurry on the over/under 280 total bet appealing. Take it as this is as solid as it comes.