Sri Lanka finally put an end to their long-standing wait for an ODI series win against India, emerging victorious by a commanding 110-run margin in the decisive third match held in Colombo on Wednesday. This impressive all-round performance saw the Sri Lankan squad defend a target of 248 runs, clinching the three-match series 2-0. The win marked a significant moment in Sri Lankan cricket history, as they registered their first bilateral ODI series victory against India since August 1997.
Playing their final ODI match of 2024, the Indian cricket team once again succumbed to a disappointing collapse despite an encouraging start from skipper Rohit Sharma. The Indian captain showcased his prowess early on, providing the team with much-needed momentum. However, the young Sri Lankan spin all-rounder Dunith Wellalage played a pivotal role in dismantling the Indian lineup. Wellalage’s exceptional performance saw him claim five crucial wickets, reducing India to a total of 138 runs and propelling Sri Lanka to a memorable victory.
India entered the match with hopes of turning the series around. To fortify their lineup, the team introduced Riyan Parag and Rishan Pant into the playing XI, aiming to capitalize on their skills and fresh energy. Sri Lanka’s successful coin toss allowed them to set the batting order, opting to replace Akila Dananjaya with their ace spinner Maheesh Theekshana. This strategic change proved effective as Theekshana’s contributions played a significant role in restricting the Indian cricketers.
Sri Lanka’s innings were anchored by openers Avishka Fernando and Pathum Nissanka, who provided a stellar start with an 89-run stand for the first wicket. The solid foundation laid by the opening pair set the tone for Sri Lanka’s total score.
The playing XI for India in this crucial match included Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Mohammed Siraj.
. Each player bore the responsibility of turning the tide in India’s favor but fell short of achieving the target, much to the disappointment of their fans.
On the other side, Sri Lanka fielded Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Asitha Fernando. Their collective efforts and well-coordinated gameplay ensured that the team maintained its grip on the match right through to the end.
The significance of this victory extends beyond the immediate series win. Not only did this match highlight Sri Lanka’s progress and strengths, particularly in the bowling department led by Wellalage’s brilliance, but it also served as a reminder of India’s vulnerability under pressure. Despite their illustrious history and cricketing prowess, India found themselves outmaneuvered by a determined and well-prepared Sri Lankan side.
Moreover, this series loss will prompt India to reflect on their strategies and player performances. With Rohit Sharma moving closer to Babar Azam in the latest ICC ODI batting rankings and joining Chris Gayle in the record for most sixes, his personal achievements contrast sharply with the team’s overall performance. The management might consider re-evaluating their batting order, increasement of spin attack strength, and the potential integration of new talents to restore their standing in forthcoming tournaments.
For Sri Lanka, this win ignites a resurgence of hope and momentum as they prepare for future international fixtures. It also cements Charith Asalanka’s leadership abilities, besides shining a spotlight on the emerging players like Dunith Wellalage, who have shown they can stand up to cricket’s giants under high-stakes circumstances.
As the cricketing world turns its attention to future contests, this unforgettable series will remain etched as a momentous chapter in the annals of Sri Lankan cricket. Both teams will undoubtedly carry forward the lessons learned from this experience as they continue their respective journeys in the international cricket arena.
