Pallekele, July 30: Skipper Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh became India’s heroes in a nerve-wracking encounter as India clinched the third T20I in a Super Over, sealing a 3-0 series whitewash against Sri Lanka. Despite a modest target of 138, Sri Lanka was well on course at 110 for 1 in 15.1 overs before they collapsed to tie the match at 137 for 8. The hosts lost seven wickets for just 27 runs in 4.5 overs, continuing their series of dramatic collapses.
Sri Lanka’s downfall continued in the Super Over, where Washington Sundar’s brilliant bowling, giving away only two runs and taking two wickets, set the stage for Yadav to seal the victory with a sweep shot off the first ball.
Suryakumar’s astute captaincy shone, particularly in the 20th over, where he defended six runs and grabbed two crucial wickets with his first two balls. Rinku Singh, stepping up for the first time in a T20I, dismissed the dangerous Kusal Perera for 46 when Sri Lanka needed just nine runs off 12 balls.
Despite Khaleel Ahmed’s costly 18th over, India’s disciplined bowling in the final stages, including a crucial 19th over costing just three runs, kept them in the game.
Earlier, Indian batsmen struggled against Sri Lankan spinners on a treacherous pitch, managing only 137 for 9. Shubman Gill (39 off 37) and Riyan Parag (26 off 18) added a vital 54 runs for the sixth wicket after India was in trouble at 48 for 5. The shot selection of the Indian batters, including Sanju Samson, who registered a second consecutive duck, left much to be desired.
Maheesh Theekshana (3/28) stood out for Sri Lanka, exploiting the turning track effectively. Despite the challenges, India’s collective bowling brilliance and strategic captaincy ensured a memorable clean sweep.
This victory marked a successful debut series as captain for Suryakumar Yadav, providing a cause for celebration and a wide grin for head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Original Story https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/07/31/surya-rinku-shine-as-india-win-in-super-over/
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