World Cup 2023: Shami, Siraj Unleash Hellfire As India Obliterate Sri Lanka For 55, Qualify For Semis

Mumbai: In a dominant performance, India secured their spot in the World Cup semifinals with a resounding 302-run victory over Sri Lanka. The match, held on Thursday, saw Sri Lanka being bowled out for a mere 55 in the 20th over after a splendid display of bowling by India.

India’s pacers, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, set the tone early in the game by claiming four wickets in as many overs. Bumrah removed opener Pathum Nissanka with the very first ball, while Siraj accounted for the quick dismissals of Dimuth Karunaratne (0), Kusal Mendis (1), and Sadeera Samarawickrama.

The highlight of the game was Shami’s outstanding 5-wicket haul, where he dismissed Angelo Mathews, Dushmantha Chameera, Charith Asalanka, Dushan Hemantha, and Kashun Rajitha. Shami’s exceptional bowling display left Sri Lanka reeling at just 55 runs, sealing a comprehensive victory for India.

Although Virat Kohli fell short of his 49th ODI century, he contributed with a well-played 88 off 94 balls. He formed a formidable 189-run partnership for the second wicket with Shubman Gill, who scored a stylish 92 off a run-a-ball. Shreyas Iyer also made a significant contribution, scoring 82 off 56 balls, with six sixes and three fours.

Dilshan Madushanka, with his 5/80 in 10 overs, was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, preventing Indian batsmen from achieving centuries and using his slower cutters and bouncers effectively.

Kohli and Gill weathered the initial storm and built a commanding partnership, giving India a dominant position. However, Kohli’s innings was cut short at 88 runs due to a soft dismissal. Gill played a fluent knock, almost reaching his century before being caught behind for 92, featuring 11 fours and two sixes.

This impressive performance by India, both with the bat and the ball, secured their place in the World Cup semifinals.