Shubman Gill Backs Follow-On Call After Colombo Draw, Praises Manav Suthar

Colombo, August 27, 2026: India captain Shubman Gill has defended his decision to enforce the follow-on against Sri Lanka despite the second Test ending in a draw, saying the move was based on the threat of rain and the importance of securing a result.

India had taken a commanding 213-run first-innings lead before asking Sri Lanka to bat again. However, the hosts managed to survive for almost two days in their second innings, with rain also disrupting the match and ultimately preventing India from taking the 10 wickets required for victory.

Gill rejected the suggestion that the follow-on had been a mistake. He explained that India had to make a decision while considering the possibility of further rain and the limited playing time available on the final two days.

The Indian captain said the team could either have batted again to build a large target or put Sri Lanka back in immediately and attempt to force a result. With significant time already lost to rain, India opted for the latter approach.

Despite the frustrating draw, Gill praised his players for maintaining their intensity during a demanding period in the field. India's bowlers, particularly the spinners, were required to operate for long spells in difficult heat and conditions.

Gill also addressed concerns surrounding fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, who bowled only 26 overs during the match. According to the captain, Siraj was not injured and was simply working his way back into rhythm after being out of competitive cricket for nearly two months.

One of the biggest positives for India was the performance of left-arm spinner Manav Suthar. The youngster finished the series as India's leading wicket-taker with 16 wickets, earning strong praise from Gill for consistently creating opportunities even when conditions were challenging.

Gill described Suthar as a bowler the team could rely on when wickets were difficult to find, highlighting his ability to keep creating chances throughout the series.

The draw leaves India in fifth position in the World Test Championship standings, but Gill remains confident about the team's qualification prospects. He believes strong performances in the upcoming series against New Zealand and Australia could still put India in a strong position to reach the WTC final.

While the missed victory in Colombo was disappointing, Gill insisted that the team gave its maximum effort and that the follow-on decision was the best option available at the time.