Sri Lanka needed nine runs off the last 12 balls. With one set batter in, they were favourites to win the game and should have. But then, the two part-timers, Rinku Singh and Suryakumar Yadav, scripted a remarkable turnaround, conceding just eight runs while taking four wickets between them to tie the game. The home team came out to bat in the Super Over and could only score TWO runs (yes, you read it right), thanks to some brilliant bowling from Washington Sundar. The visitors completed the game with five balls to spare.
India had overs remaining for their frontline fast bowlers, Mohammed Siraj and Khaleel Ahmed, but instead, skipper Suryakumar took a gamble with the part-time options, which paid off handsomely. India fought bravely until the last drop of blood and emerged as deserving winners. With this victory, they secured the three-match series 3-0.
On a turning track, India were always in the game despite posting a modest total. Sri Lanka’s top-order, as throughout the series, started well. The top three batters once again set the tone and took the game deep. However, once they were dismissed, the middle-order suffered another disastrous collapse — one that they will not forget for years to come.
Sent in to bat, the Men in Blue struggled initially, being reduced to 30/4 during the Powerplay. Amidst the early collapse, Shubman Gill and Riyan Parag held firm and began building a partnership.
They formed a 50-run stand featuring some elegant strokes. Although their approach was cautious, it was what the situation required. However, Wanindu Hasaranga’s return to the attack led to the dismissals of both Gill and Parag in the same over. Sundar’s cameo of 25 off 18 balls added some much-needed runs towards the end, helping India reach close to 140.
With the series already secured, India experimented with their batting line-up. Sanju Samson, who opened in the previous game, batted at No. 3, with Suryakumar dropping down to 5. Rinku was promoted to 4. However, none of these changes worked out for India. In the end, it didn’t matter as Sri Lanka crumbled under what did not appear to be pressure at one stage.