In the first ODI of the three-match series, India and Sri Lanka played to a dramatic tie in Colombo on Friday. Sri Lanka, after opting to bat, posted a competitive 230 for 8, thanks to solid innings from Dunith Wellalage and Pathum Nissanka. Wellalage scored 67 not out from 65 balls, while Nissanka added 56 off 75 balls.
The total was bolstered by favorable conditions for slow bowlers. Axar Patel (2/33) and Kuldeep Yadav (1/33) performed well, and seamers Shivam Dube, Arshdeep Singh, and Mohammed Siraj each took a wicket. In the last 20 overs, Sri Lanka scored 118 runs.
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In reply, India’s chase was led by captain Rohit Sharma, who made 58 off 47 balls. Contributions from Axar Patel (33) and KL Rahul (31) were not enough to secure a win. Sri Lankan bowlers Charith Asalanka (3/30) and Wanindu Hasaranga (3/58) were particularly effective.
The match ended in a tie, leaving the series finely balanced.
