SL vs IND: 2nd T20I Review – India seal series in Pallekele
India sealed their first series under the guidance of a new coach-captain duo of Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav as the team clinched a seven-wicket win in the rain-curtailed second T20I against Sri Lanka in Pallekele. The original target of 162 runs, set for a full 20-over innings, was reduced to 82 runs from eight overs after a rain interruption ate into the match time. India ultimately achieved this revised target with seven wickets in hand and nine deliveries to spare.
Suryakumar Yadav won the toss and opted to field first, putting Sri Lanka in. Once again, the Sri Lankan openers made an explosive start, amassing 55 runs during the powerplay. Despite losing a couple of wickets by the midway point, the hosts appeared poised for scoring 200. Southpaw Kusal Perera, who had been inconsistent of late, finally seized the moment with a masterful half-century (53 off 34).
However, it was Ravi Bishnoi (3/26) applied the brakes on Sri Lanka’s progress with an accurate bowling display, dismissing all-rounders Dasun Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga. Ultimately, Sri Lanka stumbled to 161/9 after another late collapse towards the end of the innings.
Just three deliveries into the run chase, a brief but substantial downpour interrupted play for approximately an hour. When the match resumed, the revised target was set at 78 runs from eight overs. Sanju Samson’s dismissal for a golden duck initially sent a few jitters in the visiting dressing room, but Yashasvi Jaiswal and Suryakumar Yadav swiftly alleviated any apprehensions. They launched a formidable assault on the bowlers, with Jaiswal amassing a rapid 30 from 15 balls and Yadav contributing 26 from 12.
Despite the dismissals of both Jaiswal and Yadav, who fell to catches by Dasun Shanaka, Hardik Pandya’s explosive innings of 22 from nine deliveries ensured India secured a commanding victory with nine balls remaining. Hasaranga, who was miserly in the game preceding this one, proved expensive in the second T20I, getting battered for 34 in his couple. The Sri Lankans were properly steamrolled in the limited time they spent on the damp outfield.
Best Performers of the match
Best Batter – Kusal Perera
Despite his team’s defeat, the southpaw remained steadfast amidst their collapse, displaying a mature and composed approach to anchor the innings. His innings, marked by six boundaries and two sixes, was a testament to his skill, especially given his previous inconsistent performances.
Best Bowler – Ravi Bishnoi
An injury sustained under his left eye during the first game failed to undermine the resolute spinner’s acumen and determination. His adept bowling proved too formidable for Sri Lanka, as they ended up succumbing to his craftiness. His exceptional display earned him the Player of the Match award, which was richly deserved.
What’s next for both teams?
India and Sri Lanka will clash again on Monday, July 30, at the same venue in the third T20I. India have already taken an unassailable 2-0 lead and all the hosts would be playing for is pride.
