Galle: India team captain Shubman Gill produced a moment of fielding brilliance, taking a spectacular one-handed catch to dismiss Kamindu Mendis and cement his team's commanding position on the third day of the first Test against Sri Lanka.

The acrobatic effort at short extra cover came during the morning session on Monday, leaving the Galle International Cricket Stadium crowd in awe and reducing the hosts to a precarious 59 for four.

Facing left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, Mendis advanced down the pitch in an attempt to push the ball through the off side. The Sri Lankan batter failed to control the shot, sending it rapidly towards Gill.

Initially moving as if to attempt a two-handed grab, Gill quickly realised the ball was evading his reach. The captain threw himself horizontally to his left, extending his left hand to snatch the ball mere inches from the turf. He maintained absolute control as he hit the ground, instantly rising to his feet to punch the air in celebration before being swarmed by his teammates.

Mendis departed for 14 off 25 deliveries, further derailing a Sri Lankan innings that struggled to respond to India’s formidable first-innings total.

Earlier in the match, India posted a massive 462 all out, anchored by Devdutt Padikkal’s 167 and substantial contributions from KL Rahul (82) and Dhruv Jurel (51).

Following Gill’s spectacular intervention, India's spinners continued to apply relentless pressure. By the end of the opening session, the hosts had collapsed to 99 for five, trailing India by 363 runs.