Every India versus Sri Lanka Test series comes with its own nostalgia where games, sessions, partnerships, big knocks and magical spells leave a lasting impression on the minds of the cricketing fraternity and fans. The countdown has begun as India prepares to face the Lankan Lions in an epic red ball challenge during the upcoming series starting 15^th August 2026. Two neighbours, one rivalry and a treasure trove of unforgettable memories. But before the first ball is bowled at Galle next week, let's walk back through the years and recall some great performances by our very own iconic Mumbai Indians stars who have lit up games.

Sachin Tendulkar

When India took on Sri Lanka during the second Test match in 2010 at the Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo, our very own legendary superstar, Sachin Tendulkar made a brilliant 203(347), aced with 23 fours and one six during India’s first innings. India responded to Sri Lanka’s massive first innings total of 642/4 decl, as our Master Blaster anchored the innings with his marathon effort with the bat. The chants were loud and clear, Sachin…Sachin!              

Rohit Sharma

During Sri Lanka’s tour of India in 2017, at the Vidarbha Cricket Association in Nagpur, our very own Ro-Hitman Sharma slammed an impressive 102 in 160 balls walking in at number six during the second Test. Mumbaicha Raja’s third Test ton showcased his tremendous ability with the bat, as he pierced the gaps well and unleashed his trademark shots. With the longest format demanding patience, he took his time and then shifted gears in an organic manner. It was a knock that had everything, from temperament to class and flair.

Jasprit Bumrah

Boom Boom Bumrah at his best, produced an eye-catching thrilling spell of 5/24 in his ten overs against Sri Lanka during the first innings at Bengaluru in 2022, which included four maidens and an economy of just 2.4. JB snapped up key wickets of opener Kusal Mendia, Lahiru Thirimanne, Angelo Mathews, Niroshan Dickwella and Lasith Embuldeniya. India eventually won the contest by 238 runs. This performance set the record for the best bowling figures by an Indian pacer against Sri Lanka in Test cricket history.

Hardik Pandya 

HP smashed his maiden Test ton, 108 off 96 balls, with eight fours and seven sixes at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium during the third Test in 2017. India eventually won that game by an innings and 171 runs with Hardik being adjudged the Player of the Match.  

Mahela Jayawardene

Batting with supreme control at Ahmedabad in 2009, during the first Test match, Mahela Jayawardene made a patient 275 in 435 balls, which included 27 fours and one six. His innings indeed put a lot of pressure on hosts India as the Lankan Lions garnered a humongous 760/7. Though the contest eventually ended in a draw, this particular knock of Mahela still stands out even today.

Lasith Malinga

The year 2010, first Test match, India tour of Sri Lanka and the yorker king commands attention at Galle International Stadium, snapping up 5/50 in his 17 overs. He first picked Gautam Gambhir, followed by Rahul Dravid, then came the all-important wicket of the man in form Sachin Tendulkar who was judged LBW and finally MS Dhoni and Abhimanyu Mithun. Slinga Malinga had the final say with his usual action, skiddy pace and movement.