Earlier, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir started the inning in style with Sehwag in particular was in a punishing mood after having to endure the batting onslaught launched by the visitors.

At tea, India were 77 for no loss in 16 overs but Sehwag fell to a swipe off Rangana Herath and was caught by Angelo Mathews after making a quick 51. Rahul Dravid, who came after him played solidly and was looking to repeat his 'The Wall' act before he was given leg before wicket to Chanaka Welegedara.

Dravid made 38 runs in 66 balls before falling prey to Welegedera in what could be termed a doubtful decision.

After his departure, skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni sent Amit Mishra as night-watchman to fend off the remaining overs. The task was achieved by Mishra, who was playing at 12 along with Gautam Gambhir.

Earlier, Sri Lanka declared the inning at 760 runs to give itself enough time to its bowlers to win the match.