“Virat Kohli’s Controversial Dismissal: DRS Debate Sparks in India vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI”
A significant controversy erupted during the second ODI between India and Sri Lanka at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday. The incident occurred on the final ball of the 15th over when Akila Dananjaya’s delivery struck Virat Kohli right in front of the stumps, leading the umpire to raise his finger in response to the LBW appeal by the Sri Lankan players. Kohli, after consulting with non-striker Shubman Gill, decided to review the decision.
The review presented a challenging situation for the third umpire. Although the UltraEdge showed a spike as the ball passed Kohli’s bat before hitting his pad, the visuals indicated a clear gap between the bat and the ball. Ultimately, the third umpire ruled in favor of Kohli, a decision that frustrated the Sri Lankan fielders and their interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya. Sri Lanka wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis even threw his helmet to the ground in frustration.
In the match, leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay delivered an outstanding performance, taking 6/33, leading Sri Lanka to a 32-run victory over India. For India, captain Rohit Sharma scored 64 runs off 44 balls, while Axar Patel contributed 44 runs. India was all out for 208 in 42.2 overs.
Earlier, a strong bowling effort from India restricted Sri Lanka to 240 for nine. Avishka Fernando (40 off 62 balls) and Kamindu Mendis (40 off 44 balls) were the top scorers for Sri Lanka, while Washington Sundar impressed with figures of 3/30. Dunith Wellalage (39 off 35 balls) and Mendis added valuable runs in the final 10 overs.
Jeffrey Vandersay was named Player of the Match. Reflecting on his performance, he said, “There was a lot of pressure coming into the side. I am coming out of a layoff. I had to do something, and it is easier to take credit. I want to give credit to the batters as well. They put on 240 runs, which helped me to bowl in good areas.”
He added, “I have to keep pushing myself. There was assistance in the wicket, and I was trying to hit the good areas. Once I got my first wicket, my confidence built up. Fortunately, I was able to take six wickets.”
