In the second ODI, Sri Lanka defeated India by 32 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Despite a solid start by Rohit Sharma, India collapsed dramatically, with Jeffrey Vandersay claiming a six-wicket haul. Sri Lanka’s lower-order partnership and strong spin attack proved crucial as India was bowled out for 208, ending their 11-series winning streak against Sri Lanka.
5 Major Key Points:
- Jeffrey Vandersay’s Performance: Vandersay took 6 wickets for 33 runs, including the first six wickets all falling to spin, a rare feat in ODIs.
- Sri Lanka’s Lower-Order Partnership: Dunith Wellalage and Kamindu Mendis added 72 runs for the seventh wicket, helping Sri Lanka post a competitive total of 240/9.
- India’s Batting Collapse: Despite a strong start with Rohit Sharma’s 64, India lost 6 wickets for 50 runs, with Vandersay dismantling the middle order.
- End of India’s Winning Streak: The defeat ends India’s 11-series winning streak against Sri Lanka, dating back to December 1997.
- Impact of the Pitch: The slow, low pitch at the R Premadasa Stadium favored spinners, contributing to India’s collapse and Sri Lanka’s successful total.