Colombo, August 07, 2024, The Europe Today: Sri Lanka achieved a landmark victory over India, defeating Rohit Sharma’s team by 110 runs in the third ODI on Wednesday in Colombo. This marks the first time Sri Lanka has beaten India in an ODI series, with the hosts winning the three-match series 2-0.
Sri Lanka’s win was sealed with a formidable bowling performance that saw India bowled out for 138 in 26.1 overs while chasing a target of 249. India’s batting lineup faltered significantly, with captain Rohit Sharma emerging as the highest run-scorer for the visitors with a quick 35 off 20 balls.
Veteran batter Virat Kohli was dismissed after contributing 20 runs off 18 balls. The dismissals of Sharma and Kohli triggered a collapse in the Indian middle order, as Rishabh Pant (6), Shreyas Iyer (8), and Axar Patel (2) fell victim to Sri Lanka’s effective spin attack.
Washington Sundar provided some resistance with a 30-run knock off 25 balls, but his dismissal left India at 138 for nine in 26 overs. Kuldeep Yadav was bowled out on the first ball of the 27th over, sealing Sri Lanka’s historic series victory.
Dunith Wellalage was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, claiming five wickets, while Jeffrey Vandersay took two wickets to dismantle the Indian batting lineup.
Batting first, Sri Lanka posted a total of 248 for seven in their 50 overs, thanks to a solid start from their openers. Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando put up an 89-run partnership in 19.4 overs. Nissanka scored 45 off 65 balls before being dismissed, and Fernando narrowly missed a century, scoring 95 off 102 deliveries.
Kusal Mendis further anchored the innings with a valuable 59 runs, and Kamindu Mendis added 23 runs late in the innings to set a competitive total for the visitors.
Sri Lanka’s triumph over India in this ODI series not only highlights their cricketing prowess but also marks a significant moment in their cricketing history, bringing a wave of celebration for the team and its supporters.
