Sri Lanka registered a historic series win over India by defeating them by 110 runs in the third and final ODI of the series on Wednesday, August 7, at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. This victory marked Sri Lanka’s first bilateral ODI series win over India since 1997, a testament to their improved performance and strategic gameplay.
The Match Overview
The final ODI match saw Sri Lanka opting to bat first after winning the toss. The decision was justified as they managed to post a competitive score of 248/7 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a brilliant knock from Avishka Fernando, who scored 96 off 102 balls. In response, India was bowled out for a paltry 138 in 26.1 overs, thanks to a stellar bowling performance by Dunith Wellalage, who took 5 wickets for just 27 runs in 5.1 overs.
Sri Lanka’s Batting Performance
Sri Lanka’s innings began with a solid opening partnership between Avishka Fernando and Pathum Nissanka. The duo added 89 runs for the first wicket off 119 balls, providing a strong foundation for the innings.
Avishka Fernando’s Magnificent Knock
Avishka Fernando was the star of Sri Lanka’s batting lineup, playing a magnificent innings of 96 runs from 102 balls. His innings was a mix of cautious defense and aggressive stroke play, which kept the Indian bowlers at bay. Fernando’s ability to find gaps and rotate the strike was crucial in building partnerships and keeping the scoreboard ticking.
Pathum Nissanka’s Contribution
Pathum Nissanka played a supporting role in the opening partnership, scoring 45 runs off 65 balls. His innings provided stability and allowed Fernando to play his natural game. Nissanka’s dismissal, bowled by Axar Patel, ended the partnership, but it had already laid a strong foundation for the rest of the team.
Middle Order Contributions
Following Nissanka’s dismissal, Kusal Mendis took charge and played a valuable innings of 59 runs off 82 balls. His partnership with Fernando added significant runs to the total. Mendis’s ability to handle pressure and play calculated shots helped Sri Lanka reach a competitive score. His innings included four boundaries and showcased his maturity as a middle-order batsman.
Lower Order Resilience
After Fernando’s dismissal, Sri Lanka’s lower order contributed crucial runs to ensure the team reached a challenging total. Contributions from players like Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga helped push the total to 248/7. Debutant Riyan Parag was the pick of the Indian bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 54 runs in his nine overs, providing a glimpse of his potential.
India’s Bowling Performance
India’s bowling attack had moments of brilliance but struggled to contain the Sri Lankan batsmen consistently. Riyan Parag’s debut was a highlight, as he managed to pick crucial wickets, including that of Avishka Fernando. However, the Indian bowlers failed to build on early breakthroughs, allowing Sri Lanka to recover and post a challenging total.
India’s Batting Collapse
India’s chase started on a positive note, with captain Rohit Sharma taking the attack to the Sri Lankan bowlers. However, the Indian innings quickly unraveled, leading to a comprehensive defeat.
Opening Partnership
Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a brisk start, adding 37 runs for the first wicket off just 27 balls. Rohit was aggressive from the outset, hitting boundaries and putting pressure on the bowlers. However, Shubman Gill struggled to get going and was dismissed for 6 runs off 14 balls, bowled by Asitha Fernando.
Middle Order Struggles
Following Gill’s dismissal, Rohit Sharma continued his aggressive approach but soon fell to Dunith Wellalage, edging a delivery to Kusal Mendis behind the stumps. Rohit’s dismissal triggered a collapse, as India’s middle order failed to handle Sri Lanka’s spin attack. Rishabh Pant’s dismissal, stumped while attempting an extravagant shot, highlighted India’s inability to build partnerships and play sensibly.
Virat Kohli’s Disappointing Series
Virat Kohli’s struggles continued as he was dismissed lbw for the third consecutive time in the series. Kohli’s inability to read the spinners and adapt to the conditions was evident, contributing to India’s batting woes. His dismissal further exposed India’s vulnerability against spin.
Lower Order Collapse
With the top and middle order failing to deliver, India’s lower order capitulated under pressure. The Sri Lankan spinners, led by Wellalage, ran through the Indian lineup, bundling them out for a meager 138 runs. Wellalage’s figures of 5/27 in 5.1 overs were instrumental in Sri Lanka’s victory.
Strategic Decisions and Their Impact
Sri Lanka’s Decision to Bat First
Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka’s decision to bat first was a crucial factor in the match. By posting a competitive total, Sri Lanka put pressure on the Indian batsmen, who struggled to chase under lights. The decision was backed by disciplined batting and effective partnerships.
India’s Bowling Strategy
India’s bowling strategy focused on early breakthroughs and containing the run rate. While the bowlers had moments of success, they failed to maintain consistent pressure. The inability to capitalize on early wickets allowed Sri Lanka to recover and post a challenging total.
Use of Spinners
Sri Lanka’s effective use of spinners was a game-changer. Wellalage’s exceptional spell, combined with support from other spinners, exploited India’s weakness against spin. The strategic deployment of spinners at crucial junctures dismantled the Indian batting lineup.
Historical Significance
Sri Lanka’s First Series Win Over India Since 1997
This victory marked Sri Lanka’s first bilateral ODI series win over India since 1997. The historic win was a testament to Sri Lanka’s resurgence in international cricket and their ability to compete against top teams. The series win boosted the team’s confidence and morale, paving the way for future successes.
Milestone Performances
The match witnessed milestone performances from both sides. Avishka Fernando’s near-century and Wellalage’s five-wicket haul were standout performances that will be remembered for years. These individual achievements highlighted the potential and talent within the Sri Lankan team.
Analyzing the Key Performances
Avishka Fernando’s Knock
Fernando’s innings was characterized by composure and aggression. His ability to rotate the strike and find boundaries at crucial moments kept the scoreboard ticking. Fernando’s dismissal just four runs short of a century was unfortunate, but his contribution was invaluable.
Dunith Wellalage’s Bowling
Wellalage’s spell was a masterclass in spin bowling. His control, variation, and ability to extract turn from the pitch troubled the Indian batsmen. Wellalage’s figures of 5/27 were a testament to his skill and potential as a match-winning bowler.
Riyan Parag’s Debut
Riyan Parag’s debut for India was a silver lining in an otherwise disappointing match. His ability to take crucial wickets and contain the run rate showcased his potential. Parag’s performance provided hope for India’s future in ODI cricket.
Post-Match Reactions
Sri Lankan Camp
The Sri Lankan camp was jubilant after the historic win. Captain Charith Asalanka praised his team’s performance and highlighted the importance of this series win. The players expressed their satisfaction with the team’s progress and emphasized the significance of the victory.
Indian Camp
The Indian camp, on the other hand, faced scrutiny and criticism. Captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged the team’s shortcomings and stressed the need for improvement. The team’s inability to handle pressure and adapt to conditions was a major talking point.
Lessons Learned
Sri Lanka’s Resilience
Sri Lanka’s performance in the series highlighted their resilience and determination. The team’s ability to recover from early setbacks and execute their plans effectively was commendable. The victory was a result of collective effort and strategic brilliance.
India’s Need for Adaptability
India’s struggles in the series underscored the importance of adaptability in international cricket. The team’s inability to handle spin and build partnerships was a major concern. The series defeat provided valuable lessons for the team to address their weaknesses.
Future Prospects
Sri Lanka’s Road Ahead
The series win against India will boost Sri Lanka’s confidence and morale. The team’s performance showcased their potential and provided a blueprint for future success. Sri Lanka’s focus will be on building consistency and capitalizing on their strengths.
India’s Rebuilding Phase
For India, the series defeat highlighted areas that need attention. The team’s focus will be on rebuilding and addressing their vulnerabilities. The emergence of young talents like Riyan Parag provides hope for the future, and the team will look to integrate these players effectively.
Sri Lanka’s historic series win over India was a testament to their resurgence in international cricket. The victory was characterized by brilliant individual performances, strategic brilliance, and collective effort. For India, the series provided valuable lessons and highlighted areas that need improvement. As both teams move forward, the series will be remembered as a turning point in their cricketing journeys.
