বাংলায় পড়ুন
In a nail-biting encounter at Colombo's spinning track, Team India emerged victorious against Sri Lanka, winning by 41 runs and securing their spot in the final of the 2023 Asia Cup. India's decision to bat first on the challenging surface set the stage for a low-scoring thriller.
Opening with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, India displayed early promise with an 8-run partnership. Rohit Sharma notched up a half-century, but the opening pair's dismissal triggered a series of wickets for India. Despite efforts from Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul to stabilise the innings, no substantial partnerships materialised.
However, India's star-studded batting lineup faltered against Sri Lanka's young left-arm spinner, Dunith Wellalage, who claimed five wickets. Rohit Sharma top-scored for India with 53 runs, while KL Rahul contributed 39, Ishan Kishan added 33, and Axar Patel managed 26. India was eventually bowled out for 213 runs in 49.1 overs.
In response, Sri Lanka's chase got off to a shaky start, with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj wreaking havoc early on. The Indian spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja kept the pressure on throughout the innings. Sri Lanka found themselves at 99 for 6, seemingly out of contention.
However, a resilient partnership between Dhananjaya de Silva and Dunith Wellalage, worth 63 runs, reignited Sri Lanka's hopes. Yet, after this crucial stand was broken, India regained control of the match. The Sri Lankan tail-enders struggled to offer substantial support, with Wellalage being the top scorer for Sri Lanka with 42 runs.
Ultimately, Sri Lanka was bowled out for 172 runs in 41.3 overs, with Kuldeep Yadav leading India's bowling attack and claiming four crucial wickets. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja both took two wickets each, while Mohammed Siraj and Hardik Pandya chipped in with one wicket each.
With this victory, India secured their place in the final of the 2023 Asia Cup, with one match remaining in the group stage. Meanwhile, the defeat dealt a blow to Sri Lanka's hopes in the tournament. Cricket enthusiasts can expect more thrilling clashes as the Asia Cup unfolds, with India setting their sights on the coveted championship title.
