Top performer: Kumar Sangakkara

0

On a slow turner and a pressure cooker situation, Kumar Sangakkara produced a top-drawer century that in the end proved to be critical in the series decider in Colombo. The Sri Lankan number three's 144 was a prototype Test ton in trying circumstances that had class stamped all over it.

After throwing away starts in his previous innings in the series, Sangakkara could not have chosen a more apt time to register his 17th Test century.

The Lankan vice-captain, who was running out of partners, batted in an exemplary fashion with the lower-order. His 80-run stand with wicketkeeper Prasanna Jayawardene frustrated India no end and propelled the home side to an impressive 396, a 147-run first innings lead.

The stylish southpaw batted with grit and elegance, striking 14 boundaries in his 288-ball knock.

For previous match's top performer click here