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On Wednesday, August 7, the Charith Asalanka-led Sri Lanka National Cricket Team faced off against Rohit Sharma’s India National Cricket Team in the third and final ODI of their series at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Entering the match with a 1-0 series lead, Sri Lanka had impressed with their performances in the first two games.
In the first ODI, Asalanka’s team managed to secure a tie after setting a competitive total of 230 for 8 in their 50 overs. Despite a strong push from Rohit Sharma’s side, Sri Lankan bowlers made key breakthroughs, including two crucial dismissals when India needed just one run with two wickets remaining and more than two overs to go, resulting in India being bowled out for 230 and the match ending in a tie.
In the second ODI, Sri Lanka improved their batting to post a total of 240 for 9. Their bowlers, led by Jeffrey Vandersay, replicated their previous performance by containing India, who were bowled out for 208 despite Sharma’s aggressive batting. Sri Lanka won the match by 32 runs.
I am a happy captain right now – Charith Asalanka
In the third ODI, Sri Lanka delivered a commanding performance, securing a 110-run victory and clinching the series 2-0. This win marked Sri Lanka’s first ODI series triumph over India since 1997.
Batting first, Avishka Fernando (96), Pathum Nissanka (45), and Kusal Mendis (59) showcased exceptional skill, putting India’s bowlers under considerable pressure. Despite limited contributions from the lower order, Sri Lanka managed to post a competitive total of 248/7.
When it came to defending the total, Sri Lankan bowlers were once again impressive. Youngster Dunith Wellalage took five wickets, including key dismissals of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Axar Patel, helping to bowl India out for 138 runs.
After the match, Charith Asalanka expressed his immense satisfaction with the historic series win at home. He noted that the team was well-prepared to tackle India’s formidable batting lineup, employing a strategic spin-bowling approach. Asalanka also shared that the mood in the Sri Lankan camp was buoyant, with coach Sanath Jayasuriya particularly pleased with the team’s performance.
“I am a happy captain right now. The team did all things right throughout the series. We all knew they are a strong batting line up and we wanted to back our strength, spin was our strength and we backed it.
“They are in a good mood right now and our coach (Sanath Jayasuriya) is very active. The boys really enjoyed the team environment.”
