Gautam Gambhir, Virat Kohli’s Joy Turns to Disbelief as India Fumbles Easy Win

Shivam Dube and Arshdeep Singh were dismissed off consecutive deliveries by Charith Asalanka with India needing just one run to win, resulting in a tie in the first ODI against Sri Lanka on Friday. India, chasing a target of 231, appeared on the brink of victory with only one run required from 15 balls. After Dube hit a boundary on the third ball of the 48th over, Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir celebrated in the dressing room. However, Dube was out LBW on the next ball, leaving India with just one wicket remaining.

With one run needed from 14 balls, Arshdeep Singh came in as the last batter. Kohli and Gambhir were hopeful, but Arshdeep was dismissed for a golden duck after attempting a slog sweep and being adjudged LBW.

Earlier, Sri Lanka posted a competitive score of 230 for 8, thanks to fifties from Dunith Wellalage (67 not out) and Pathum Nissanka (56). The total proved challenging due to conditions favoring spin bowlers. Wellalage’s innings included seven fours and two sixes, while Nissanka scored 56 off 75 balls.

Indian bowlers Axar Patel (2/33 in 10 overs) and Kuldeep Yadav (1/33 in 10 overs) were economical, and seamers Shivam Dube, Arshdeep Singh, and Mohammed Siraj also took a wicket each. Sri Lanka scored 118 runs in the last 20 overs.

In India’s chase, Rohit Sharma contributed 58 off 47 balls, while Axar Patel (33) and KL Rahul (31) also made useful contributions but couldn’t secure the win. Charith Asalanka (3/30) and Wanindu Hasaranga (3/58) were the standout bowlers for Sri Lanka.