Sri Lanka Fails in First ODI Against India
Four of Sri Lanka’s top-five batters struggled to make an impact in the first ODI against India, with only a few managing to cross the 15-run mark. The slow pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo seemed to favor the medium pace of Shivam Dube, who took advantage of the batters’ reluctance to put him under pressure.
Pressure on Sri Lankan Top Order
The Sri Lankan top order, which included Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, and Sadeera Samarawickrama, failed to showcase their natural flair and attacking instincts, allowing Dube to claim his maiden ODI wicket. Despite a brief fightback led by Dunith Wellalage, Sri Lanka’s winless streak continued as they missed another opportunity to secure a victory.
India’s Bowling Options
India, on the other hand, utilized part-time bowlers like Shubman Gill to maintain control in the middle overs. The team’s strategy of involving non-regular bowlers has been consistent throughout the tour, providing flexibility and surprise elements in their bowling attack.
What to Expect in the Second ODI
As Sri Lanka prepares to face India in the second ODI on Sunday, scattered thunderstorms are predicted, but they are not expected to impact the game significantly. Both teams are likely to stick with their Playing XI, with Sri Lanka considering adding a fourth frontline spinner to their lineup.
Probable Lineups
Sri Lanka: Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (C), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Akila Dananjaya, Mohamed Shiraz/Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando
India: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh/Khaleel Ahmed
Key Stats and Quotes:
- Virat Kohli has scored four centuries in his last six ODI innings at the R Premadasa Stadium.
- India’s top-five batters all averaged above 50 in ODIs last year.
- Charith Asalanka has been dismissed five times by left-arm legspinners in 11 innings.
Sairaj Bahutule, India’s spin bowling coach, highlighted the importance of batters who can bowl, providing surprise elements in the team’s strategy.
Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka’s captain, expressed satisfaction with his team’s energy and performance in the field, despite falling short in the first ODI.