Image Source: The Hindu
India’s dominance in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka has been evident, given the clear disparity in team quality and India’s strong recent form. The Indian team, guided by the newly appointed coach Gautam Gambhir, has made quick work of the series by winning the first two matches with relative ease, exceeding even the highest expectations.
As the third T20I approaches, scheduled for Tuesday at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka will be aiming to restore some pride. The home team has struggled, particularly in the middle order, which has failed to build on the solid starts provided by their top batsmen in both games.
Sri Lanka’s openers, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, have been aggressive and provided good starts. Kusal Perera also scored half-century in the second T20I. However, the Indian bowlers have consistently dismantled the rest of the Sri Lankan batting lineup, leading to below-par scores for the home team. Skipper Charith Asalanka and experienced player Dasun Shanaka have been disappointing, with Shanaka yet to score in the series.
In contrast, India’s batting has been impressive, with captain Suryakumar Yadav leading from the front, scoring a team-high 84 runs at an explosive strike rate of 221.05. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has been effective against Sri Lankan bowlers, and Shubman Gill, although missing the second game due to a neck injury, showed strong form in the first match. The Indian spinners, including Axar Patel and Ravi Bishnoi, have outperformed their Sri Lankan counterparts, with part-time spinner Riyan Parag also contributing.
With the series already secured, India plans to rotate its squad, providing opportunities for Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, and Khaleel Ahmed. Sanju Samson, who replaced the injured Gill in the second match, may also feature again. The Sri Lankan fans in Kandy hope for a better performance from their team in this final T20I, as it will be their last chance to see the team in action at Pallekele this year.
