IND vs SL: Sri Lanka secured a 32-run victory over India in the 2nd ODI, taking the lead 1-0 in the series. Chasing a target of 241, India’s batting faltered except for standout performances from Rohit Sharma and Axar Patel. Sri Lankan bowler Jeffrey Vandersay was pivotal, claiming 6 wickets for just 33 runs and playing a crucial role in India’s collapse.
Sri Lanka’s win was marked by their resilience across all departments. Despite missing their ace spinner Hasaranga, Sri Lanka’s bowlers, particularly Vandersay and Charith Asalanka, dismantled the Indian batting lineup. Contributions from Dunith Wellalage and Kamindu Mendis helped Sri Lanka post a total of 240, which proved sufficient as they fought back with the ball.
On a challenging surface, India’s opening pair of Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma built a solid foundation with a 97-run stand. However, the innings collapsed dramatically from 97/1 to 147/6, as the top and middle order succumbed to Sri Lanka’s attack.
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Axar Patel, batting at number 5, and Washington Sundar attempted to stabilize the innings. They managed to add valuable runs but fell in quick succession, reigniting Sri Lanka’s hopes. As runs became hard to come by, Sri Lanka’s bowlers tightened their grip, making each run fiercely contested.
Vandersay’s exceptional performance turned the match, as he took crucial wickets and dismantled India’s batting. Charith Asalanka’s second spell further cemented Sri Lanka’s dominance, effectively cleaning up the Indian tail. Sri Lanka’s exceptional fielding and strategic bowling secured a memorable victory.
