(Source X)
Former Indian fast bowler Dodda Ganesh criticized Arshdeep Singh for his choice of shots during the first ODI of the three-match series between India and Sri Lanka. Ganesh expressed his belief that Gautam Gambhir would likely be displeased with Singh’s performance. While Ganesh acknowledged that tailenders aren’t typically expected to contribute significantly with the bat, he emphasized that Singh should have demonstrated better game awareness.
The series opener, held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on August 2, concluded in a tie. Sri Lanka, after winning the toss, set a target of 230 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their 50 overs. In reply, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team matched Sri Lanka’s total but was bowled out for 230 runs in 47.5 overs, resulting in a deadlock.
Arshdeep Singh Isn’t Going To Impress Gautam Gambhir – Dodda Ganesh
Dodda Ganesh voiced his dissatisfaction with Arshdeep Singh’s shot selection at a pivotal moment in the first ODI against Sri Lanka through his social media channels. The ex-Indian cricketer suggested that Singh’s choice of shot likely fell short of head coach Gautam Gambhir’s expectations.
“You can’t expect run from the tail-enders but a bit of game awareness is paramount for any cricketer. That shot from Arshdeep isn’t going to impress the coach Gambhir #SLvIND #DoddaMathu,” Ganesh wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).
In pursuit of 231 runs, the visitors found themselves at 197 for seven. However, Shivam Dube played a crucial role, forming valuable partnerships with lower-order batsmen Kuldeep Yadav (2) and Mohammed Siraj (5), helping the team advance to 230 for eight. With just one run needed for victory and more than two overs remaining along with two wickets in hand, the situation seemed promising.
Sri Lanka’s captain, Charith Asalanka, dismissed Shivam Dube by trapping him LBW. Dube had contributed 25 runs off 24 balls, including one four and two sixes, before heading back to the dressing room. Arshdeep Singh, on his first delivery, attempted a risky cross-bat shot, missed, and was also dismissed LBW.
A Moral Booster For The Underdogs – Dodda Ganesh
The 51-year-old commended the Sri Lankan bowlers for their impressive resurgence in the match. Ganesh noted that the tie would serve as a significant morale boost for them ahead of the remaining fixtures in the ongoing series.
“And it’s a tie. Great application shown by Sri Lankan bowlers. This is a going to be a great moral booster for the underdogs #SLvIND,” Ganesh wrote.
Prior to the ODI series, Sri Lanka came very close to defeating India in all three T20I matches. Despite their efforts, the Charith Asalanka-led side lost the T20I series 3-0. In the final T20I, they were in a promising position at 110-1 while chasing a target of 138. However, a dramatic collapse ensued, resulting in a tie.
The second ODI between India and Sri Lanka is set to take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday, August 4. The visiting team is keen to maintain their dominance in the white-ball format, while the hosts are determined to secure a victory in the upcoming match.
