Team India and Sri Lanka are currently battling it out in the first game of their three-match T20I series at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The match has already seen some thrilling cricketing action and a few standout moments. Sri Lanka’s captain, Charith Asalanka, won the toss and opted to bowl first. However, the decision did not immediately pay off as their bowlers struggled to make early inroads. Indian openers Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal capitalized on the opportunity, getting India off to a flying start.
The pair forged a robust fifty-plus partnership for the first wicket, putting the Sri Lankan bowlers under significant pressure. It wasn’t until a spectacular catch by Asitha Fernando that Sri Lanka managed to break the opening stand, giving the hosts a much-needed breakthrough.
Aside from the Indian openers’ impressive batting and Fernando’s exceptional catch, Kamindu Mendis’ unique bowling performance has been a major talking point. Making his debut against India in any format, the 25-year-old showcased his ambidextrous bowling skills. Introduced in the tenth over, Mendis initially bowled left-arm spin to Suryakumar Yadav. Despite being greeted with a boundary on his first ball, he quickly settled into a rhythm, conceding no more boundaries in that over.
WATCH – Asitha Fernando’s Spectacular Catch Dismisses Shubman Gill In Thrilling T20I Opener
When left-handed Rishabh Pant came on strike, Mendis switched to right-arm off-spin, demonstrating his versatility. While he did not claim a wicket in his opening over, his ability to bowl with both arms undoubtedly left an impression.
Kamindu Mendis bowling left arm to Suryakumar Yadav and right arm to Rishabh Pant. 😄👌 pic.twitter.com/ZBBvEbfQpS
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) July 27, 2024
As the match progressed, India continued to dominate. By the 15th over, they had reached 159 for 3. Gill and Jaiswal’s opening partnership of 74 runs set a solid foundation. Gill’s innings ended on the final ball of the powerplay when he was dismissed for 34. In a dramatic turn, Wanindu Hasaranga removed Jaiswal on the very next delivery, leaving India momentarily shaken.
WATCH – Shamar Joseph Cleans Up Ollie Pope With A Brilliant Delivery
However, India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, quickly stabilized the innings with a blazing fifty. His aggressive knock of 58 from just 26 balls put India back in control. As of the latest update, India remains in a strong position, thanks to the early exploits of their openers and Suryakumar Yadav’s explosive batting.
