(Getty Image)
On Sunday, July 28th, the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team, led by Charith Asalanka, faced off against the India National Cricket Team, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, in the second T20I of their three-match series at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
Asalanka’s team came into the match following a defeat in the series opener against the Men in Blue. Despite moments of competitiveness, especially after winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Sri Lanka struggled to contain the Indian batsmen. Despite early breakthroughs, India managed to post a formidable total of 213/7, with Matheesha Pathirana claiming four wickets.
In their chase, Sri Lanka started strongly with Pathum Nissanka scoring 79 and Kusal Mendis adding 45. However, once their top-order batsmen were dismissed, the team faltered, eventually finishing at 170 all out, falling short by 43 runs.
Overall, it was a challenging match for Asalanka’s side, who showed promise but couldn’t sustain their momentum against the formidable Indian team led by Suryakumar Yadav.
In the second T20I, Sri Lanka opted to bat first but could only muster a total of 161/9 despite a promising start from their top order.
Their bowling effort fell short as India comfortably chased down the target with 7 wickets in hand, aided by a revised target of 78 runs in 8 overs due to rain interruptions.
Reflecting on the match at the post-match presentation, Charith Asalanka expressed deep disappointment with his team’s batting display, emphasizing the need for significant improvement going forward.
“I am really disappointed with the way we batted at the death and about our middle order and lower middle order including me. We must really improve in our batting.”
Charith Asalanka stressed the importance of putting aside their recent losses and focusing on bouncing back strongly in the upcoming matches.
“On this pitch, when the ball gets older, it gets really hard to bat. As professional cricketers, we have to do well. We were behind by 15-18 runs. Unfortunately the weather also played something, we can’t control that. It’s easy when it comes to an 8-over game with a wet outfield.”
