It was a clinical performance, says Virat Kohli after Galle Test win

Galle, July 29: Happy to have buried the ghosts of a humiliating loss here two years ago, India skipper Virat Kohli today (July 29) described his team's massive 304-run win over Sri Lanka in the opening Test as a "clinical performance".

"We lost a Test we should have won in 2015. It depleted our confidence. But this time it was a clinical performance two years down the line," Kohli said at the presentation ceremony after India dismissed Sri Lanka for 245 on day 4 to lead the three-match series 1-0.

"We are an experienced team now, we played good cricket. All bases were covered and I'm really happy with the way things went in this Test," he added.

Dhawan, who was adjudged the Man-of-the-match, said he enjoyed his batting and the competition for the opening slot is keeping him on his toes.

"I really enjoyed batting over here. I just watched the ball and backed my game. There is a very healthy competition for the opening spot in the side, and it keeps me on my toes," he said.

Sri Lankan stand-in skipper Rangana Herath credited India for the win, saying they were outclassed in all three departments of the game.

"It is a pretty good wicket, and the toss was not a factor. Credit to the India team. We need improvement in all three departments. Asela's loss is huge."

Asked about his injury, Herath, who didn't bat today as he had hurt his finger while bowling yesterday, said: "The finger is getting better. There is nothing on the scan. It was a previous fracture and I am sure it will get better."

Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin was given a special award for playing 50th Test.

PTI