Sri lanka beat india in a one day international (odi) series for first time since 1997.The Islanders won the three-match series 2-0 after a decisive 110-run victory in the third ODI at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday.
This remarkable achievement came on the back of a dominant performance by Sri Lanka, who had earlier secured a 32-run victory in the second ODI, with the first match ending in a draw.
The series win marks a significant milestone for Sri Lankan cricket and highlights their resurgence on the international stage.
Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka set a formidable target of 249 runs. The opening duo of Pathum Nissanka and Aishka Fernando laid a solid foundation with a partnership of 89 runs. Nissanka scored a steady 45 off 65 balls, while Fernando narrowly missed out on a century, producing a well-played 95 off 102 deliveries.
Contributions from Kusal Mendis (59) and Kamindu Mendis (23) further boosted the total to 248 for seven in their allotted 50 overs.
In response, the Indian batting line-up faltered under pressure, collapsing for just 138 runs in 26.1 overs. Indian captain Rohit Sharma top-scored for the visitors with a brisk 35 off 20. Veteran batsman Virat Kohli could muster just 20 runs off 18 balls before his dismissal, sparking a dramatic collapse of India’s middle order.
Rishabh Pant (6), Shreyas Iyer (8) and Axar Patel (2) fell cheaply and could not withstand Sri Lanka’s relentless attack. Washington Sundar provided some resistance with a quick 30 off 25 balls but his efforts were in vain as the Indian innings quickly folded. Kuldeep Yadav’s dismissal on the first ball of the 27th over sealed a momentous victory for Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s standout performer was Dunith Wellalage, who dismantled the Indian batting line-up with a five-wicket haul. Jeffrey Vandersay also made a significant impact, scoring two crucial goals.
Reflecting on the series win, the Sri Lankan captain expressed immense pride in his team’s performance. It is a historic moment for Sri Lankan cricket,” he said.
On the other hand, Indian captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged his side’s shortcomings and said, “We failed to capitalize on key moments. Kudos to Sri Lanka for their outstanding performance throughout the series.”
