Despite early struggles India manages to sneak through to win: Super-Over FTW
India clinched a thrilling victory over Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I at Pallekele, winning the match via a Super Over and securing a 3-0 series sweep
In the Super Over, India needed just three runs to win from six balls. Suryakumar Yadav finished the match with a boundary on the first ball, sealing Ind’s victory. In the game, Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bowl first. Ind’s innings started poorly, with early dismissals and struggles against the Sri Lankan bowlers. Mahesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga led the charge for Sri Lanka, taking five wickets between them. Ind’s top order faltered, with significant contributions only from Shubman Gill, who scored 39, and Riyan Parag, who added 26. Ind ended their innings at 137/9 in 20 overs. In response, Sri Lanka’s chase was led by Kusal Perera (46 off 34 balls) and Kusal Mendis (43 off 41 balls). Despite a solid start, Sri Lanka’s innings collapsed towards the end, with the team finishing at 137/8, leading to a Super Over. Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Rinku Singh, and Suryakumar Yadav took two wickets each for India.
India lost early wickets, with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, and Suryakumar Yadav getting out cheaply. The team was reeling at 48/5 by the ninth over. Recovery Partnership: Shubman Gill and Riyan Parag put up a crucial 50-run partnership, helping Ind reach a respectable total. Sri Lanka’s Strong Start: Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera gave Sri Lanka a solid start, scoring 35/0 by the end of the powerplay. Indian Bowlers’ Fightback: Ravi Bishnoi and Washington Sundar took key wickets, disrupting Sri Lanka’s chase. Rinku Singh and Suryakumar Yadav’s contributions were also pivotal in keeping the match tight. Super Over Drama: With the game ending in a tie, the Super Over saw Ind requiring just three runs to win, which Suryakumar Yadav achieved with a boundary on the first ball. Ind’s victory in the Super Over secured the match and completed a dominant 3-0 series sweep against Sri Lanka. This match highlighted India’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, especially with key performances from both bat and ball.