Colombo, Aug 22 (IANS): Despite Sri Lankan skipper Angelo Mathews' century (102), India took the post-lunch session honours, taking four quick wickets to reduce Sri Lanka to 298/7 at tea on the third day of the second Test here on Saturday.

Middle-order bat Jehan Mubarak and Rangana Herath remained unbeaten on 20 and 1 respectively while for the Indians, fast bowler Ishant Sharma and leg-spinner Amit Mishra took two wickets each at the P Sara Oval ground.

Sri Lanka were still 93 runs behind the visitors with three wickets in hand at tea.

After going wicket-less through the first session the Indians struck back after lunch as Ishant was rewarded for his persistence. Left-hander Thirimanne, who had been patient for his knock of 62 runs, tried to drive a wide half-volley from the lanky pacer. The ball took the edge and thudded into the gloves of wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha.

However, the Sri Lankan batsman did not look happy with the decision. With the wicket, the partnership of 127 runs between skipper Mathews and Thirimanne also ended.

Ishant struck again in the 91st over of the innings as he produced another edge off Dinesh Chandimal's bat (11), which was taken by Lokesh Rahul at second slip.

Mathews too was dismissed soon after as Indian all-rounder Stuart Binny got him out caught at slips.

Leggie Mishra then sent back Dhammika Prasad as the hosts were reduced to 298/7 after being 241/3.

Earlier, resuming on the overnight score of 140/3, Mathews (72) and Thirimanne (57) ensured that the hosts added 84 runs to their total without losing a wicket in the opening session of play.