India and Sri Lanka kicked off their three-match ODI series with a thrilling first match that ended in a tie, providing a treat for cricket fans. The exciting encounter saw both teams battling fiercely, showcasing their skills and determination. After the match, India’s skipper Rohit Sharma reflected on the game, acknowledging the areas where the team needs improvement for the upcoming fixtures. His comments highlighted the team’s focus on refining their strategies and performance to secure better results in the next matches.
India’s Normal Batting and Sri Lanka’s Utmost Dedication:
Sri Lanka, batting first, posted a total of 230 runs. Pathum Nissanka was dismissed by Washington Sundar for 56 off 75 balls, while Dunith Wellalage remained unbeaten with 67 off 65 balls. Wanindu Hasaranga contributed 24 runs off 35 balls. Arshdeep Singh took 4 wickets for 72 runs with an economy rate of 9.00. Axar Patel took 3 wickets for 33 runs, maintaining an economy of 3.30. Others took 1 wicket each.
While chasing a target of 231, India encountered setbacks with crucial wickets tumbling. Rohit Sharma (c) was dismissed for 58 off 47 balls, Shubman Gill was caught for 16, and Virat Kohli fell for 24. Shreyas Iyer was bowled for 23, KL Rahul was caught for 31, Axar Patel was caught for 33, and Shivam Dube was dismissed for 25. These pivotal dismissals made the chase challenging for India.
Wanindu Hasaranga showcased his skill with 10 overs, taking 3 wickets for 58 runs at an economy rate of 5.80. Captain Charith Asalanka was equally effective, claiming 3 wickets in 8.5 overs while giving away just 30 runs, maintaining an economy of 3.40. Dunith Wellalage also impressed, bowling 9 overs, and securing 2 wickets for 39 runs at an economy of 4.30. Their collective efforts put significant pressure on the Indian batting lineup.
Rohit Sharma After the Match:
Following the tied match, skipper Rohit Sharma discussed the missed opportunities that cost them the win and praised Sri Lanka for their outstanding effort throughout the game. His remarks highlighted both the areas for improvement and the competitive spirit displayed by the opposition, acknowledging the thrilling nature of the contest.
Rohit Sharma said, “ The scores are gettable, it’s just that you have to bat well to get that score. We batted well in patches. There was no consistent momentum through the game for us. We started really well with the bat but we knew the game will start after 10 overs once the spinners come in to bowl. We had the upper hand to start with, then we lost a couple of wickets and fell behind the game. With the partnership that KL and Axar had, we again came back into the game pretty well. In the end, little disappointing, 14 balls, 1 run to get. These things happen.”
He added, “ Sri Lanka played well. In the end, it was a fair result. It (pitch) remained the same. There was bite in the first 25 overs when we bowled and it was the same for them as well. As the game went on, the seam wore off for both teams and it was a bit easier to bat. It’s not where you can just come and play your shots and get runs. You have to apply yourself and dig in really well to get that score. Proud of the way how we fought till the end. The game shifted towards both teams at different times. It was important to hold the nerve and stay in the game. We should have got that one run.”
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