India ended the day at 357/8 after 90 overs, just 6 runs behind Sri Lanka XI's first-innings score of 363/8.

Gurnoor Brar turns into a power hitter

The Indian fast bowler smashed an unbeaten 36 off just 18 balls. His quick innings included four sixes and two fours.

Brar attacked Sri Lanka XI spinner Dilum Sudeera in the final over of the day. He cleared the boundary four times in the over and helped India add 25 runs. It was an unexpected display of power from a player primarily known for his pace bowling.

Gautam Gambhir enjoys Brar's big hits

Brar's smashing caught the attention and head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen smiling and applauding as the pacer cleared the boundary.

The moment provided some fun at the end of a busy day for India's batters. For Brar, it was also a chance to show that he can contribute with the bat when required.

Padikkal steals the batting spotlight

While Brar provided the entertainment, Devdutt Padikkal was India's standout batter. The left-hander finished unbeaten on 142.

He batted with confidence and controlled the Sri Lankan bowlers throughout his innings. His performance could be very important for India's Test selection plans.

Padikkal strengthens his no. 3 claim

India have a vacancy at No. 3 after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out of the Test series because of injury. Padikkal was already one of the possible candidates for the position. His unbeaten 142 has now strengthened his case.

He has shown that he can spend a long time at the crease while also scoring runs at a good pace. The first Test against Sri Lanka will begin in Galle on August 15.

Sai Sudharsan's injury has opened door

Sudharsan's absence has created an important selection battle. India now have to decide who should take the No. 3 spot.

Padikkal's performance has given the team management another strong option. The selectors could also consider players such as Sarfaraz Khan and Shaik Rasheed. But after his latest knock, Padikkal has certainly made his case stronger.

Spin could be a big challenge

The dismissals of Pant and Jurel were also a reminder of the challenge awaiting India in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan pitches can offer plenty of assistance to spinners as matches progress. India's batters will need to play spin carefully. Getting enough time against the local spinners in the warm-up match is therefore important.

India's lower order can be a weapon

One of the most encouraging signs for India was the contribution from the lower order. Jadeja scored 63, Suthar made 41 and Brar smashed 36 from only 18 balls.

If India's lower order can continue producing runs, it could give the team a major advantage in Test matches.

Brar's batting is a useful bonus

Brar's main job is to take wickets with the ball. But his explosive batting could be an added advantage. A fast bowler who can score 30-40 quick runs can change the momentum of a Test innings. His four sixes may not guarantee him a place in the first Test. But they certainly gave India another reason to be happy.