- India’s Tour Of Sri Lanka 2024 (1st T20)
By Marlon Dale Ferreira
In an electrifying opening T20 clash, India emerged victorious over Sri Lanka by a commanding 43 runs. The match, held on a true batting pitch, saw both teams showcasing their skills with bat in hand, but it was India who held their nerve to secure the win.
India began their innings with a strong start from openers Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who exploited the power play restrictions to full effect. Their aggressive approach laid a solid foundation, and despite losing a couple of quick wickets, Suryakumar Yadav’s blistering 26-ball 58 propelled India to a formidable total of 213. Young pacer Matheesha Pathirana was the standout for Sri Lanka, claiming four wickets and slightly curbing India’s run flow towards the end.
In response, Sri Lanka’s chase was off to a flying start with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis forming a formidable opening partnership. Their textbook cricket and effective strike rotation had Sri Lanka cruising at above ten runs per over. However, the tide turned in the 15th over when Axar Patel’s left-arm spin broke the game open by dismissing both set batters. The Indian spinners, led by Patel and part-timer Riyan Parag, who took three crucial wickets, dismantled the Lankan batting line-up.
Sri Lanka suffered a dramatic collapse, losing nine wickets in just 32 balls after being in a strong position at 140/1 after 14 overs, ultimately being bowled out for 170 in 19.2 overs.
The pressure of the mounting required run rate proved too much for the remaining batsmen.Suryakumar Yadav’s stellar performance with the bat earned him the Man of the Match award, as he played a pivotal role in setting a challenging target for Sri Lanka. His innings, coupled with disciplined bowling from the Indian spinners, ensured India secured a comprehensive win.
Chief Scores :-
India – 213 for 7 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 58, Rishabh Pant 49, Yashasvi Jaiswal 40, Matheesha Pathirana 4 for 40, Wanindu Hasaranga 1 for 28, Dilshan Madushanka 1 for 45)
Sri Lanka – 170 for 10 in 19.2 overs (Pathum Nissanka 79, Kusal Mendis 45, Kusal Perera 20, Riyan Parag 3 for 5, Arshdeep Singh 2 for 24, Axar Patel 2 for 38)
Player of the Match – Suryakumar Yadav
