India break new ground

Malinda Warnapura survived the first referral of an umpire's decision in Tests on day two in Colombo

The International Cricket Council's umpire referral system came into use for the first time today when India asked for a review of an lbw decision on the second day of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo.

Off-spinner Harbhajan Singh struck Sri Lanka's Malinda Warnapura on the pad in the 46th over of the first innings with a delivery that pitched on middle stump and seemed to be drifting down leg.

Their appeal was turned down by on-field umpire Mark Benson with Warnapurna on 86.

Skipper Anil Kumble challenged the decision and the umpire referred it to third umpire Rudi Koertzen, who also ruled not out.

The decision leaves India with only two challenges remaining in Sri Lanka’s first innings.