India vs Sri Lanka 2017, 2nd Test, Day 4: 5 things we learnt from the day

#4 Thirimanne's lack of temperament gives voice to Mendis's recall ruckus

Mendis may not have enjoyed the best of times with the bat, but the talented no.3 should've been given a longer rope

Lahiru Thirimanne was picked to replace Kusal Mendis at the much valued no.3 spot in Test cricket. Flamboyant by nature and with a susceptible technique, Thirimanne composed a fine half-century at Kolkata but shades of his inconsistency crept up yet again here at Nagpur. The left-hander unfurled a nothing sweep shot in the first innings against Ashwin only to be bowled through the gate.

As if the embarrassment wasn't enough, Thirimanne scripted another ugly shot in the second innings. With Lanka striving to save the Test, the southpaw flayed at a wide Umesh Yadav delivery to edge to point for 23. That he had settled himself in at the wicket makes his shot even more appalling. Kusal Mendis's talent and temperament were quickly disposed of by Lanka but they might need to rethink their strategy.