India vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI : In a stunning display of spin bowling and strategic prowess, Sri Lanka defeated India by 110 runs in the third ODI in Colombo, securing the series 2-0. This decisive victory marked Sri Lanka’s first series win against India in 27 years and showcased their resurgence on the international stage.
Let’s have a look into more details: India vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI
Wellalage’s Fifer Stuns India
The star of the match was undoubtedly Dunith Wellalage, whose remarkable figures of 5.1-0-27-5 dismantled India’s batting lineup. His critical wickets included Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav. Wellalage’s performance ensured that India could only muster 138 runs in 26.1 overs, far short of the 249-run target set by Sri Lanka.
India’s Batting Woes Continue
India’s chase started on a positive note with Rohit Sharma hitting crucial boundaries. However, the middle and lower order failed to build on this start. Apart from Sharma (35) and Washington Sundar (30), the Indian batsmen struggled to cope with the spin attack. Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, who had been under scrutiny for their performances in the previous matches, again failed to make a significant impact, scoring just 6 and 20 respectively.
Sri Lanka’s Solid Batting Effort
Earlier, Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 248 for 7 in their 50 overs. Avishka Fernando’s composed 96 and Kusal Mendis’s well compiled 59 were the backbone of the innings. The partnership between Fernando and Pathum Nissanka (45) provided a solid foundation, despite debutant Riyan Parag’s impressive bowling figures of 3 for 54.
A Historic Series Victory
This series win is monumental for Sri Lanka, ending a 27-year drought against India in bilateral series. The victory underscores Sri Lanka’s development and determination, showcasing their ability to compete and triumph against top-tier teams. It is a testament to their growth and resilience, especially significant as it comes without some of their key players like Matheesha Pathirana and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Key moments
- First ODI: The series opener ended in a dramatic tie, setting the stage for a fiercely contested series.
- Second ODI: Sri Lanka took a 1-0 lead with a 32-run victory, exposing India’s vulnerability against spin.
- Third ODI: Sealing the series with a dominant 110-run win, Sri Lanka’s spinners, led by Wellalage, decimated India’s batting lineup.
Avishka Fernando’s 96 was a crucial innings that set up Sri Lanka’s total. He missed out on a well deserved century but ensured Sri Lanka had a defendable score. Riyan Parag made a memorable debut, taking three important wickets and providing a glimpse of his potential as an all rounder. Dunith Wellalage’s spell was the game changer, as his fifer broke the back of the Indian batting lineup.
Sri Lanka’s Resurgence
This series win is a significant morale booster for Sri Lanka, who have faced tough times in recent years. The victory against a full strength Indian side without key players like Matheesha Pathirana and Wanindu Hasaranga highlights the depth and talent in the Sri Lankan squad. Interim coach Sanath Jayasuriya will be pleased with this performance as the team looks ahead to future challenges.
India’s Concerns
For India, this series exposed several weaknesses, particularly in handling spin bowling. The batting collapses in all three matches are a cause for concern as the team prepares for upcoming international assignments, including the Champions Trophy. The decision to rest key players and the performance of the replacements will be subjects of intense scrutiny.
Sri Lanka’s triumph will be celebrated as a turning point, while India will need to address their vulnerabilities and regroup. The cricketing world will watch keenly as both teams prepare for their next challenges, with Sri Lanka aiming to build on this momentum and India seeking to bounce back stronger.
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FAQ
Who won the 3rd ODI between India and Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka won the 3rd ODI by 110 runs
