Laxman powers India to victory

COLOMBO // VVS Laxman smashed an unbeaten 103 to guide India to a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the third Test to tie the three-match series. India, chasing 257 to win, started the final day on 53 for three and lost the wicket of nightwatchman Ishant Sharma four just three overs into the first session when he was caught by Kumar Sangakkara at mid-wicket off Suraj Randiv .

Tendulkar and Laxman shared 109 runs for the second wicket to tilt the game in India's favour.

Tendulkar was out for a watchful 54 off 122 balls, including three boundaries. Laxman faced 122 balls and hit three boundaries. The off-spinner Randiv, playing only his secondTest, claimed his first five-wicket haul to finish with 5-82. * AP