ODI results not turning out to be as good as T20s

In an exhilarating first ODI between India and Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka managed to secure a dramatic tie under the leadership of their new ODI skipper, Charith Asalanka

Asalanka’s debut as captain was memorable as he took two crucial wickets in two balls, preventing India from snatching victory. Dunith Wellalage, the 21-year-old all-rounder, also played a pivotal role by scoring 67 off 65 balls and taking 2-39 with his left-arm spin. Despite a shaky start that saw Sri Lanka at 142/6, they managed to post a respectable total of 230/8, largely thanks to Wellalage’s late heroics supported by Wanindu Hasaranga (24) and Akila Dananjaya (17). India’s chase started promisingly, with captain Rohit Sharma racing to a half-century off just 33 balls.

However, a sudden collapse saw them lose three wickets for just 12 runs, putting Sri Lanka in control at 197/7. Shivam Dube, batting at No. 8, appeared to steer India towards victory with some powerful hitting. However, Asalanka’s decisive strikes in the final moments leveled the match. Earlier, Mohammed Siraj’s previous dominance over Sri Lanka influenced their cautious start. After losing Avishka Fernando early, Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka stabilized the innings during the Powerplay. However, Dube and Axar Patel’s breakthroughs left Sri Lanka in a precarious position. Nissanka’s 75-ball 56 was a standout effort, but Sri Lanka faltered until Wellalage’s counterattack revived their hopes.

With the ball, Wellalage’s dismissal of Rohit Sharma marked a turning point. He also claimed Shubman Gill’s wicket, setting the stage for a tense finish. Despite contributions from Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul, India’s middle order faltered under pressure. Dube’s leg-before dismissal and Arshdeep Singh’s failure to clear the infield sealed the tie, leaving the Indian dressing room in disbelief. The match not only highlighted Asalanka and Wellalage’s impact but also underscored the unpredictable nature of cricket, with both teams exhibiting moments of brilliance and vulnerability.

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