Manav Suthar makes history as the youngest Indian to achieve a 10-wicket haul in an away Test match.

NEW DELHI: In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Manav Suthar has made history by becoming the youngest Indian cricketer to achieve a 10-wicket haul in an away Test match. His outstanding performance was pivotal in leading India to a victory over Sri Lanka in Galle, giving the team a 1-0 advantage in the two-match series.

At just 24 years and 16 days old, Suthar showcased his talent with impressive bowling figures of 4/76 in the first innings, followed by an exceptional 6/55 in the second. This achievement places him among an elite group of Indian spinners, being only the seventh to secure a 10-wicket haul in an away Test. Notably, he is the only player in this distinguished list, which includes legends like Ravichandran Ashwin and Anil Kumble, to accomplish this feat before the age of 28.

Suthar's performance not only highlights his individual prowess but also cements his place in Indian cricket history. He is now part of a select group of bowlers who have recorded multiple five-wicket hauls within their first two Tests, joining the ranks of Narendra Hirwani and Axar Patel. Furthermore, he is only the fourth Indian to achieve a maiden 10-wicket haul in his first two Tests, a feat previously accomplished by Hirwani, who holds the record for the fastest to do so.

Despite being the least experienced of India's three left-arm spinners in Galle, Suthar outperformed his more seasoned teammates, proving to be the key player in India's triumph. His achievement is particularly significant as he becomes only the fourth Indian to take a 10-wicket haul against Sri Lanka, following in the footsteps of Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, and Ashwin.

India's victory not only secured 12 vital points in the World Test Championship but also marked a milestone as it was the team's 600th Test match. Captain Shubman Gill expressed his admiration for Suthar, stating, "He's been bowling magnificently, and he looks like a very promising guy who can play for India for a very long time." The atmosphere in the Indian dressing room was celebratory, with players exchanging hugs and fist pumps in recognition of Suthar's contributions.

In addition to Suthar's success, Devdutt Padikkal made a strong return, demonstrating solid batting throughout both innings. On the Sri Lankan side, Keshara Nuwantha and Sonal Dinusha stood out, with Nuwantha showing resilience after a challenging start and Dinusha performing well with the bat. Sri Lanka's quest for a Test victory over India continues, now extending to 11 matches, including nine losses. The series will proceed to Colombo for the second and final Test, set to begin on August 23.