India vs Sri Lanka 2017, First Test: 5 Reasons why India humbled Sri Lanka at Galle

#3 Notable contributions from the middle

Virat Kohli registered his 17th Test ton

The middle-order is an essential part of the batting line-up as it carries forward the good work done by the top order. A team might lose the momentum if the middle-order falters after an impressive show by the opening batsmen.

In the first innings, after Shikhar Dhawan got them off to a flier, India needed the middle-order to come to the party. They did so in style as Pujara put his head down for a spectacular knock of 153 runs in 265 balls. Ajinkya Rahane and Hardik Pandya’s half-centuries also helped the cause for India.

Ravichandran Ashwin also impressed with a brisk knock of 47 runs. With a massive lead on the board, India already had the upper hand after the first innings. Courtesy a batting spectacle by Virat Kohli, India was able to set Sri Lanka with a massive target to chase down.