For the first time since December 1997, India failed to secure victory in a bilateral series against Sri Lanka, as the home team stunned the two-time world champions in the second ODI of the three-match series in Colombo on Sunday. Jeffrey Vandersay, stepping in for the injured Wanindu Hasaranga, took a record six-wicket haul, restricting India to 208 in their chase of 241, leading Sri Lanka to a 32-run win and an unassailable 1-0 series lead. This victory followed a dramatic tie in the first ODI, orchestrated by Sri Lanka’s spinners.
During India’s chase, former captain Virat Kohli was involved in a contentious DRS incident in the 15th over. Attempting to play an off-break from Akila Dananjaya, Kohli was struck on the pads, prompting a loud appeal and an affirmative decision from the umpire. However, upon review, the UltraEdge showed a spike when the ball was near the bat, leading the TV umpire to overturn the decision. Both Kohli and the Sri Lankan players were surprised by the DRS result; Kohli laughed, while the Sri Lankans were visibly upset. Kusal Mendis threw his helmet in frustration, and captain Charith Asalanka expressed his displeasure to the on-field umpire. Interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya was also seen in an animated discussion with the reserve umpire.
After the match, Kohli and Jayasuriya had a brief but intense conversation during the post-match handshake before patting each other on the shoulder.
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India’s captain Rohit Sharma set a strong foundation for the chase with a brisk 44-ball 64, forming a 97-run partnership with opener Shubman Gill. However, Vandersay triggered a collapse, taking six wickets in 58 balls, reducing India to 147 for six in 23.1 overs. Despite Axar Patel’s run-a-ball 44, India faltered as Asalanka claimed consecutive wickets, exposing the lower order, which succumbed under pressure.
India faces a must-win situation in the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Wednesday.