India vs Sri Lanka 2017, 2nd Test, Day 1: 5 things we learnt from the day

#3 Ishant's near perfect day could seal ticket for South Africa

Ishant got a lucky opportunity with Shami picking up a niggle

Ishant Sharma may not even have played this Test if not for Mohammad Shami's niggle. But on day 1 he put his hand up and bowled like the seamer India wanted him to be several years ago. With Ishant, it was always about lack of consistency and energy. Today he altered both of those and put forward a compelling case for the upcoming overseas tours.

Sadeera Samarawickrama was the first to fall to the lanky pace bowler, nicking a length delivery that seamed away to first slip. Having struck early, Ishant gained confidence and bowled nine overs in the first 22 overs of the innings. When he returned he dismissed the persistent Karunaratne and broke a 62 run partnership that was starting to bother the hosts.