Day 1 of the 3rd Test match between India and Sri Lanka was marked by sheer dominance from the hosts. The Feroz Shah Kotla, Delhi saw the Indians take the field sporting the Armed Forces badge as a mark of respect to the warriors who protect the country.
Winning the coin toss, Virat Kohli opted to perform with the willow in hand. Right-handed opener Lokesh Rahul faced the axe and made way for Shikhar Dhawan. Murali Vijay paired up with Shikhar Dhawan to open the Indian innings, as the crowd waited in anticipation to see the pair bat together.
While Shikhar Dhawan could not repeat his stellar form against the Lankans, Murali Vijay slammed yet another century.
The Chennai-born batsman looked in sublime touch, as he piled upon his century from the 2nd Test in Nagpur with a mesmerising inning of 155 runs. It has been a fairytale return for the 33-year old, as he now has two consecutive centuries since his return following a wrist injury.
Cheteshwar Pujara fell cheaply this time, much to the delight of the Sri Lankans, but the joy was cut short by Indian skipper Virat Kohli.
The India skipper continued his surreal run of form with a 150-run knock of his own. After a thumping double ton in Nagpur, Virat Kohli paired up wonderfully with the already rooted Vijay to build up his innings. While Vijay fell victim to Lakshan Sandakan on a score of 155, Virat Kohli ended the day unbeaten at 156. The India skipper hammered 16 boundaries in the process, as he continues to prove why he is the best in the world.
Ajinkya Rahane lost his wicket quickly once gain, and it’s a sign of worry for the composed customer. The Indian scoreboard stood at 371 for four at the end of the day with the skipper well settled at the crease with Rohit Sharma, who also got a century to his name in the second Test match.
There is a lot to expect from day two, as Virat Kohli is on his way to crush a few more records. A sixth double ton for the captain will bring him at par with Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag who have scored six each for India. The Indians could well be aiming another 600 plus score if the Lankans do not get their act right.