Colombo: In a thrilling second ODI at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Sri Lanka secured a 32-run victory over India, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. India began their chase of Sri Lanka’s target of 240 runs with confidence, only to falter dramatically under pressure from Jeffrey Vandersay’s stellar bowling performance.
Captain Rohit Sharma led India’s innings with a brisk 64 off 44 balls, supported by Shubman Gill’s 35 off 44. However, their departures triggered a collapse for the Men in Blue. Vandersay, instrumental in this downfall, dismissed both openers and continued to dismantle the batting order, taking key wickets including Virat Kohli (14), Shivam Dube (0), Shreyas Iyer (7), and KL Rahul (0). India was ultimately all out for 208 in 42.2 overs.
Axar Patel made a valiant effort with a 44 off 44, attempting to steady the innings with Washington Sundar, who scored 15 off 40. Despite their efforts, Sri Lanka’s bowling duo Vandersay and Charith Asalanka, who also claimed three wickets, proved too formidable.
Earlier, opting to bat first, Sri Lanka faced an initial setback with Pathum Nissanka dismissed for a duck on the opening delivery. Despite this, contributions from Avishka Fernando (40), Kusal Mendis (30), Sadeera Samarawickrama (14), Asalanka (25), Janith Liyanage (12), Dunith Wellalage (39), Kamindu Mendis (40), and Akila Dananjaya (15) built a competitive total.
Washington Sundar emerged as India’s standout bowler, with figures of 3 for 30, while Kuldeep Yadav supported with 2 for 33.