IND vs SL: Sri Lanka Sets 231-Run Challenge For India In First ODI

With Sri Lanka setting a target of 231 runs for India in the Ind vs Sl match, they head into the second innings with a boost of confidence, knowing they can leverage the pitch conditions and their three spinners to restrict the Indian side. India, while initially satisfied with the target, must approach the chase with caution and strategy. The IND vs SL game stands evenly poised at the halfway mark. Will Sri Lanka use spin early to make a significant impact, or will India’s batting strength guide them through the chase? Stay tuned as the chase begins to unfold.

Dunith Wellalage, a standout performer in the first innings of the Ind vs Sl clash, discusses his approach. He mentions having prepared well for the pitch and playing his natural game.

Wellalage’s performance was pivotal, as he scored his maiden ODI fifty and remained unbeaten with 67 runs, forging a crucial 46-run partnership with Akila Dananjaya. Their combined effort helped Sri Lanka surpass the 220-run mark, which had initially seemed out of reach in the contest.

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Janith Liyanage and Dunith Wellalage absorbed pressure from the Indian bowlers, including Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar. They counter-attacked effectively when Shubman Gill was introduced, scoring 14 runs in an over and alleviating some pressure. A key moment occurred when Liyanage left the field after a close appeal, only for replays to show he hadn't touched the ball. Their 41-run partnership proved essential for Sri Lanka in the IND vs SL match.

Despite the Indian spinners’ tight control, with Axar Patel dismissing Sadeera Samarawickrama cheaply and Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav taking crucial wickets, Pathum Nissanka held firm and scored a valuable half-century, benefiting from a missed catch by Mohammed Siraj.

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Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh started with precision, keeping the Sri Lankan batsmen in check. Avishka Fernando was dismissed for a single run by Siraj, putting Sri Lanka on the back foot early. Kusal Mendis made a brief start but was dismissed by Shivam Dube after the powerplay.

Sri Lanka’s robust comeback to post 230 runs in the game was largely due to Dunith Wellalage’s remarkable innings.