Sri Lanka’s spinners once again orchestrated a stunning victory, claiming a dominant 2-0 series triumph over India in the third and final one-day international. The hosts secured an emphatic 110-run win at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, marking their first bilateral ODI series victory against their neighbours since 1997.
Chasing a target of 249, India succumbed to the guile of left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage, who delivered a brilliant five-wicket haul (5 for 23). India’s chase mirrored the pattern of the previous two matches, with skipper Rohit Sharma (35) providing a strong start. However, once he departed, the remaining batters struggled against the relentless spin attack. Wellalage struck four times in his first four overs, reducing India from 53 for one to 82 for six in a devastating spell. He dismissed Rohit, Virat Kohli, Axar Patel, and Shreyas Iyer, all caught in the web of his clever variations.
The visitors’ resistance crumbled, and they were bowled out for a meager 138 in just two hours. Wellalage fittingly claimed the final wicket, completing a mesmerizing display of spin bowling that earned him widespread praise. The Sri Lankan spinners collectively proved to be a formidable force throughout the series, taking 27 out of the 30 wickets across the three matches.
Prior to the Indian collapse, Sri Lanka had set a competitive total of 248 for seven. Avishka Fernando starred with a brilliant 96, receiving valuable support from Pathum Nissanka (45) and Kusal Mendis (59). Sri Lanka made full use of the favorable conditions, with Fernando and Nissanka providing a solid foundation at the top of the order. Fernando’s aggressive batting, particularly his powerful hitting against Mohammed Siraj, proved instrumental in Sri Lanka’s strong start.
Although Sri Lanka experienced a mini-collapse, losing five wickets in quick succession, Kusal Mendis’s steady presence at one end helped them finish strongly. Ultimately, the strong foundation laid by the top order and the brilliance of Wellalage proved too much for India to overcome. The series victory is a testament to Sri Lanka’s spin bowling prowess and their ability to exploit favorable conditions effectively. It also highlights the team’s growing confidence and determination, setting the stage for exciting times ahead.
