Sri Lanka came out on top against India in the third and final match of their three-match ODI series, winning by a resounding 110 runs and clinching the series 2-0. Dunith Wellalage's five-wicket haul played a crucial role in Sri Lanka's victory, which is also their first bilateral series win against India since 1997. Despite a valiant effort from Rohit Sharma and Washington Sundar, who both top-scored for India, Riyan Parag's three-wicket haul helped restrict Sri Lanka to 248/7. Follow all the highlights and updates from the match in Colombo.
Sri Lanka's Historic Series Triumph over India: Dunith Wellalage's Heroics Lead to a 2-0 Victory
In a stunning turn of events, Sri Lanka emerged victorious against the formidable Indian cricket team in the final match of their three-match ODI series on Sunday, July 23, 2023. The Islanders clinched the series 2-0, marking their first bilateral series win against India since 1997.
Sri Lanka's victory was orchestrated by a stellar performance from young all-rounder Dunith Wellalage. The left-arm spinner claimed an incredible five-wicket haul, dismantling India's batting lineup with his accuracy and variations. Wellalage's match-winning effort included the wickets of in-form opener Rohit Sharma and experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
India, chasing a modest target of 249 runs, struggled to counter Sri Lanka's disciplined bowling attack. Despite a valiant effort from Rohit Sharma (56) and Washington Sundar (50), the visitors were bowled out for a mere 138 runs. Riyan Parag, another emerging Sri Lankan spinner, chipped in with three wickets to further restrict the Indian batsmen.
With the series triumph, Sri Lanka have not only showcased their growing strength but have also reignited the rivalry between the two South Asian cricketing giants.
Background
The India-Sri Lanka rivalry has been a long and storied one, with the two teams having played each other in numerous international competitions over the years. India has historically held the upper hand, but Sri Lanka has occasionally upset the odds, as evidenced by their victory in the 1996 World Cup.
In recent years, India has been the dominant force in the rivalry, winning the majority of matches played between the two sides. However, Sri Lanka's victory in the recent ODI series is a sign that the balance of power is shifting.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who is Dunith Wellalage?
Dunith Wellalage is a 23-year-old Sri Lankan all-rounder who made his international debut in 2021. He is a left-arm spinner and a handy lower-order batsman.
2. What was the significance of Sri Lanka's series win?
Sri Lanka's series win is significant because it marks their first bilateral series victory against India since 1997. It also breaks India's dominance in the rivalry in recent years.
3. What were the key factors in Sri Lanka's victory?
The key factors in Sri Lanka's victory were Dunith Wellalage's five-wicket haul, Riyan Parag's three-wicket haul, and India's inability to chase down a modest target.
4. What does the future hold for the India-Sri Lanka rivalry?
The India-Sri Lanka rivalry is likely to remain one of the most intense and competitive in world cricket. Both teams have a long history of success, and they continue to produce talented players.
5. What are the upcoming fixtures between India and Sri Lanka?
The next scheduled fixture between India and Sri Lanka is an ODI match in January 2024. The match will be played in Hyderabad, India.
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