India against Sri Lana, 1st ODI results

The pitch at Premadasa Stadium, reminiscent of the 90s, started with seam movement and quick runs but became increasingly difficult as spinners took control. After a lengthy seven-and-a-half-hour match, the first ODI ended in a tie, with neither team’s batting standing out.

Chasing 231, India’s chances relied on Rohit Sharma’s aggressive 47-ball 58, which included seven boundaries and three sixes. However, as the pitch deteriorated, Sri Lanka’s spinners gained dominance. Despite a strong start, India struggled as Rohit’s dismissal left them in a tight spot. Shivam Dube’s late boundary appeared to secure a win, but Charith Asalanka’s crucial wickets of Dube and Arshdeep Singh ensured the tie.

Indian batsmen, rusty after a six-month break, failed to build on their start. Besides Rohit and a 57-run stand between KL Rahul and Axar Patel, the rest faltered against Sri Lanka’s spinners, who claimed 9 of the 10 wickets that fell.

Sri Lanka’s young pace bowlers were overshadowed by their effective spinners—Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, and Akila Dananjaya. They exploited the soft ball, posing challenges for India’s batsmen. Rahul and Axar’s steady accumulation was disrupted by Rahul’s sweep shot and Axar’s dismissal, bringing the game to a balance.

India’s bowlers had a chance to win when Sri Lanka was at 101/5, but Janith Liyanage’s controversial dismissal and Wellalage’s innings turned the match. Wellalage, with an unbeaten 67, anchored crucial partnerships, ensuring the tie.

Pathum Nissanka was the lone consistent performer for Sri Lanka, building the innings after early dismissals. India’s spinners—Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar—bowled well, with figures of 4 for 112 from 29 overs, but Sri Lanka’s resilience resulted in a tie that felt like a victory for them.