Sri Lanka scripted history after clinching victory over India in the first ODI bilateral series in 27 years. Sri Lanka trounced India by 110 runs in the third and final ODI on Wednesday at R. Premadasa Stadium, with Dunith Wellalage starring with five wickets, and Avishka Fernando firing 96 runs. With the thrilling conclusion to the three-match ODI series, Sri Lanka sealed the series 2-0. This came as a monumental achievement for Sri Lanka, winning first ODI bilateral series over India in 27 years.
Sri Lanka, deciding to bat, put up a competitive total of 248, having found a solid start, with openers Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando pounding (45) and (96) respectively. Both openers formed an 89-run partnership to get the team off to a rollicking start.
Axar Patel took Nissanka out but that didn’t affect Sri Lanka’s momentum as Kusal Mendis starting his attack in the same pace, banged (59). Sri Lanka’s powerful start ensured that they reached a resolute total.
As for India facing a challenging target, faltered early in their chase, with top-class and bankable players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli departing for (35) and (20). To say the least, India lacked momentum from the very start in their chase. India’s solid middle-order also failed to stage comeback with the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer disappointing once again.
Washington Sundar (30) led the recovery for some time but it wasn’t enough for India to overcome Sri Lanka’s gritty bowling attack. This time Sri Lanka were helped by Wellalage, who spearheaded India’s collapse, claiming five wickets and restricting India to a paltry 138 all out.