In a refreshing change from the usual high-scoring affairs of modern white-ball cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his appreciation for the intense and low-scoring battles witnessed in the ongoing India vs Sri Lanka ODI series. The veteran off-spinner believes these matches are a delightful test for fans and players alike, contrasting sharply with the fast-paced T20 spectacles.
Team India entered the series as favorites, yet the hosts have shown remarkable resilience and tactical prowess. The first ODI ended in a thrilling tie, and Sri Lanka clinched the second match by a 32-run margin, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. In an era where 300 runs is often seen as the benchmark in ODIs, the scores of 230 and 240 have provided a refreshing change.
During the series decider on August 7 at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Ashwin took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts on the nature of the contest:
“Amidst all the mayhem and high-scoring games in white ball cricket, this slow burn in SL is a relief. It’s a great watch if you love the ebbs and flows of the game but it can test your patience if you are from the Slam bang cricket gen.”
Sri Lanka’s Steady Climb
Sri Lanka, after winning the toss and opting to bat, posted their highest total of the series so far, 248/7. This steady improvement from their previous scores of 230 and 240 highlighted their ability to adapt and build on each performance. The pitch in Colombo offered limited assistance to Indian spinners for the majority of the innings, allowing Sri Lanka’s top order to establish a solid foundation.
Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando provided a strong start with an 89-run opening partnership. Nissanka scored 45 before falling short of his half-century, while Fernando agonizingly missed out on his century, getting dismissed for 96. Despite these setbacks, Kusal Mendis’ late charge ensured Sri Lanka added crucial runs in the final overs.
India’s Response and Ashwin’s Perspective
As India began their chase, they faced a challenging task, needing 249 runs to win. The Indian spinners eventually found some assistance from the pitch, similar to what Sri Lanka experienced in the latter part of their innings. This setup promised a gripping second half of the match.
Ashwin, meanwhile, recently led the Dindigul Dragons to their maiden Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) title, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. He scored 252 runs and claimed nine wickets in 10 games. Ashwin is expected to return to international action in the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh in September.
Series Decider Highlights
At the time of writing, Sri Lanka were in a commanding position during the decider, having scored 171/2 after 35.3 overs. Skipper Charith Asalanka and Kusal Mendis were at the crease, steering the innings forward. Avishka Fernando’s solid 96 and Pathum Nissanka’s 45 had laid the groundwork, while Riyan Parag and Axar Patel took the key wickets.
Sri Lanka are eyeing their first ODI series win against India since 1997. Historically, India has dominated, winning 11 out of the last 13 ODI series against Sri Lanka, with the remaining two ending in draws.
This ongoing series has proven to be a captivating spectacle, reminding cricket fans of the beauty and tension inherent in low-scoring, closely fought matches. As the final game progresses, all eyes will be on whether India can overcome the challenge or if Sri Lanka will finally break their long-standing jinx against their formidable opponents.
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