Jeffrey Vandersay grabs six as Sri Lanka sink India in second ODI | Cricket News – belyc
Chasing a target of 241 on a spin-friendly pitch, India started strong but were bowled out for 208 in 42.2 overs. Rohit Sharma led the charge with a blistering 64 off 44 balls, including five fours and four sixes, laying a solid foundation alongside Shubman Gill, who contributed a steady 35. The duo took India to 97 for one in just 13.3 overs, putting the visitors in a commanding position.
However, Vandersay’s introduction to the attack triggered a dramatic collapse. Sharma’s dismissal, caught off a reverse sweep by Vandersay, sparked a rapid downfall as India lost six wickets for just 50 runs within 10 overs, slipping from 97 for one to 147 for six.
Vandersay, stepping in for the injured Wanindu Hasaranga, capitalized on the turning pitch and exposed India’s vulnerabilities against spin. Key players like Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and Shivam Dube fell prey to his sharp bowling, underscoring the challenge posed by the conditions.
Axar Patel offered some resistance with a fighting 44 off 44 balls, forming a brief partnership with Washington Sundar. However, his efforts were curtailed when Charith Asalanka dismissed him, extinguishing India’s hopes of a comeback.
Earlier, Sri Lanka’s innings faced its own struggles against India’s spin attack, with Washington Sundar claiming 3/30 and Kuldeep Yadav adding 2/33. The hosts were reeling at 136 for six, but a vital 72-run partnership between Dunith Wellalage and Kamindu Mendis helped them reach a competitive total of 240 for nine. Late-order contributions ensured Sri Lanka set a challenging target on a tricky pitch.