Sri Lanka's Dunith Wellalage Shines with Another Five-Wicket Haul Against India

Sri Lanka's Dunith Wellalage became the first player to take two five-wicket hauls against India in ODI matches, leading his team to a 110-run victory in Colombo and securing a 2-0 series win.

In a remarkable display of spin bowling, Sri Lanka's Dunith Wellalage made history by taking his second five-wicket haul against India in an ODI match, becoming the first player to achieve this milestone. India crumbled under his spell, suffering a 110-run defeat in Colombo during the third ODI.

Wellalage's slow left-arm orthodox bowling proved too challenging for Indian batsmen, with key players like skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and Axar Patel failing to fend off his deliveries. At just 21, Wellalage first showcased his prowess against India last year at the same venue, R Premadasa Stadium, capturing 5/40.

In this match, his figures of 5/27 in 5.1 overs were pivotal. Post-match, Wellalage expressed gratitude for his teammates' support, highlighting their adaptation to the pitch conditions. "The batters did a good job, and then the spinners bowled well. Everyone is supporting each other, and I am excited to be part of the team," he said.

Chasing 249, India faltered to 138 in 26.1 overs, thanks to Wellalage's crucial breakthroughs and contributions from other bowlers like Jeffery and Maheesh Theekshana. Their collective effort sealed Sri Lanka's dominant 110-run win and a 2-0 series triumph over the world's top ODI team.

(With inputs from agencies.)