From correspondents in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 07:31 PM IST

Muttiah Muralitharn struck early to reduce India to 159 for the loss of six wickets in the first innings, in reply to Sri Lanka's 600 for six declared, at the end of the third day's play of the first cricket Test match at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground here Friday.

Muralitharan picked up four for 38 and now the Indians are staring at a follow-on.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)