SL vs IND, 3rd ODI: Clueless India Suffer Humiliating Loss as Sri Lanka Secure Historic Series Win

Colombo: Sri Lanka’s spinners, led by Dunith Wellalage’s stellar five-wicket haul, dismantled India’s batting lineup, leading to a resounding 110-run victory in the final ODI in Colombo on Wednesday. This win secured Sri Lanka’s first bilateral ODI series triumph over India since 1997, clinching the series 2-0 after the first match ended in a tie.

Chasing 249 on a spinning deck at R Premadasa Stadium, India collapsed to a disappointing 138 all out in just 26.1 overs.

Wellalage, previously impressive with the bat, showcased his bowling prowess with figures of 5 for 27. Earlier, opener Avishka Fernando anchored Sri Lanka’s innings with a well-crafted 96, propelling the hosts to a total of 248 for 7.

India had a brisk start despite losing Shubman Gill early, thanks to captain Rohit Sharma’s aggressive 35 off 20 balls, including an 18-run over off Maheesh Theekshana. However, Sharma’s dismissal while attempting a sweep shot off Wellalage triggered a collapse. Virat Kohli (20) misjudged a delivery from Wellalage, resulting in an LBW decision, while Rishabh Pant’s aggressive approach led to his stumping off Theekshana.

Debutant Riyan Parag, replacing Arshdeep Singh, was bowled by a straight delivery from Jeffrey Vandersay. Shreyas Iyer also fell to Wellalage, contributing to the seven dismissals that were either LBW or bowled, exposing India’s struggles against spin.

Brief Scores: Sri Lanka: 248/7 in 50 overs (Avishka Fernando 96; Riyan Parag 3/54) beat India: 138/10 in 26.1 overs (Rohit Sharma 35; Dunith Wellalage 5/27) by 110 runs.