Sri Lanka Clinches Historic ODI Series Win Against India After 27 Years

Following Sri Lanka's series victory against India, interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya highlighted the team's dedication to nurturing young talents such as Dunith Wellalage, Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, and captain Charith Asalanka. Jayasuriya also credited an unexpected contributor in the team's success, as Sri Lanka secured a 110-run win in the decisive third ODI at R Premadasa Stadium.

Avishka Fernando's impressive 96-run knock and Wellalage's five-wicket haul were pivotal in this triumph. This series win, marking a 2-0 lead, is Sri Lanka's first over India in 27 years, building on India's disappointing performance following their close loss to Australia in the ICC Cricket World Cup final.

Post-match, Jayasuriya emphasized the importance of confidence-building. A week-long training program with Rajasthan Royals' Director of High Performance, Zubin Bharucha, was crucial. The coach noted that the players learned to extend their innings, which enhanced their overall confidence. Despite prior challenges, including injuries to key players, Jayasuriya expressed immense pride in the team's achievement, reminiscing Sri Lanka's last series win against India in 1997.

In the final ODI, contributions from Fernandos and Kusal Mendis (59 runs) alongside Nissanka (45 runs) helped set a target of 249 runs. India's batting lineup faltered against Sri Lanka's spinning conditions, with only skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Washington Sundar showing resistance. Wellalage's outstanding performance, both with the ball and bat, earned him the 'Player of the Match' and 'Player of the Series' awards.

(With inputs from agencies.)