Sri Lanka triumphed over India in a memorable ODI series, clinching their first series victory against the visitors since 1997. In the third and final match held in Colombo, Sri Lanka defeated India by 110 runs, wrapping up the three-match series with a 2-0 victory. The first match had ended in a tie, followed by a 32-run win for Sri Lanka in the second ODI.
India, chasing a target of 249, struggled against Sri Lanka’s bowling attack and were bundled out for a mere 138 runs in 26.1 overs. Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, led the batting effort with a quick 35 runs off 20 balls, but his dismissal initiated a collapse. Veteran batsman Virat Kohli added 20 runs from 18 balls before also being dismissed, which further weakened India’s position.
The middle order faltered significantly as Rishabh Pant managed only 6 runs, Shreyas Iyer 8, and Axar Patel just 2, all falling prey to Sri Lanka’s spin prowess. Washington Sundar showed some resistance with a spirited 30 off 25 balls, but his departure left India reeling at 138 for nine. Kuldeep Yadav was the last man out on the first ball of the 27th over, marking a historic series win for Sri Lanka.
Sri Lankan bowlers were exceptional, with Dunith Wellalage taking a five-wicket haul and Jeffrey Vandersay contributing with two wickets. Their disciplined bowling dismantled India’s batting lineup, ensuring a comfortable win.
Earlier, Sri Lanka had set a target of 248 for seven in their 50 overs, thanks to solid contributions from their top order. Openers Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando laid a strong foundation with a partnership of 89 runs. Nissanka scored 45 off 65 balls, while Fernando fell just short of a century, scoring an impressive 95 off 102 deliveries.
Kusal Mendis further anchored the innings with a crucial 59 runs, and Kamindu Mendis added 23 late in the innings, helping Sri Lanka reach a competitive total. This strong batting performance and effective bowling strategy were key to Sri Lanka’s series win, ending a long drought against India in ODIs.
