In a match filled with twists and turns, India clinched victory over Sri Lanka, securing their place in the Asia Cup final, and ending Bangladesh's hopes. The game showcased the challenging nature of the pitch, with both teams struggling to navigate the spinning surface.
India, batting first, faced the unpredictable turn of the pitch as they reached 214. Rohit Sharma's aggressive batting stood out, propelling him past the milestone of 10,000 ODI runs. However, Dunith Wellalage, with his sensational spin, turned the tide, claiming wickets with balls that behaved unexpectedly on the pitch.
Despite the pitch's challenges, Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul provided stability with a 63-run partnership for the fourth wicket. At 154 for three in the 30th over, it seemed India was on course for a score of 250 or more. The pitch claimed more wickets, leaving India to utilize their batting depth, including the inclusion of Axar Patel at No. 8.
Defending 214, India's fast bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, displayed their class. They exploited the pitch's uneven bounce and movement, reducing Sri Lanka to 25 for three within the eighth over. Bumrah's genius came to the forefront as he deceived Kusal Mendis with a searing yorker followed by a slower delivery that led to a crucial wicket.
Sri Lanka's middle-order partnership of Asalanka and Samarawickrama revived their hopes. However, Kuldeep Yadav intervened with his spin. Ravindra Jadeja's dual-threat spin added to the pressure, ultimately leading to Shanaka's dismissal.
As the game reached its climax, Dhananjaya de Silva and Dunith Wellalage continued to score, putting India on edge. De Silva punched Bumrah for a four, and Wellalage hit the first six of the innings with a slog-sweep off Kuldeep.
Yet, Hardik Pandya's clever variation proved effective, sending Theekshana back. Kuldeep's deceptive wrong'un claimed another wicket. Then, Matheesha Pathirana missed a sweep, sealing India's 41-run victory.
Dunith Wellalage's outstanding performance, scoring a fluent 42 and taking five wickets, made him the standout performer of the match. While Sri Lanka's winning streak of 13 ODIs came to an end, Wellalage's talent and potential shone.
India's win secured their place in the Asia Cup final. Their upcoming fixture against Bangladesh will determine their opponent in the title decider. Pakistan and Sri Lanka will vie for the final spot, with Sri Lanka having the advantage in net run rate if rain or a tie interferes.
Scorecard:
India 213 (Rohit 53, Rahul 39, Wellalage 5-40, Asalanka 4-18) beat Sri Lanka 172 (Wellalage 42*, de Silva 41, Kuldeep 4-43, Bumrah 2-30, Jadeja 2-33) by 41 runs.