Colombo: The first ODI of the series against Sri Lanka ended in an exciting tie. Chasing Sri Lanka's total of 230 runs, India's batting lineup matched the score. The opening innings by captain Rohit Sharma and the middle-order rescue acts by Axar Patel and KL Rahul were crucial in saving India from a defeat. Contributions from Virat Kohli (24), Shreyas Iyer (23), and Shivam Dube (25) also played a part.
With only two overs remaining and needing just one run to win, Arshdeep Singh lost his wicket attempting a big hit, resulting in the Indian team being all out. India’s innings ended at 230 runs in 47.5 overs, equaling Sri Lanka’s score of 230 for 8 in 50 overs. Earlier, Sri Lanka was bolstered by half-centuries from openers Pathum Nissanka and Dunith Wellalage. Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh took two wickets each for India. For Sri Lanka, Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga took three wickets each, with Wellalage adding two wickets to his tally.
Wellalage Leads Sri Lanka to Set India a Target of 231 Runs
Colombo: In the first match of the ODI series against India, Sri Lanka set a target of 231 runs. Batting first, Sri Lanka scored 230 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was anchored by half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka and Dunith Wellalage. Nissanka scored 56 runs off 75 balls, while Wellalage remained unbeaten on 67 runs off 65 balls, steering Sri Lanka out of a precarious position.
India’s bowling was led by Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel, who took two wickets each. Despite losing early wickets, Sri Lanka managed to post a competitive total with contributions from Wanindu Hasaranga (24), Janith Liyanage (20), Akila Dananjaya (17), wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis (14), and captain Charith Asalanka (14). Mohammad Siraj, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar each took a wicket for India.
Indian Team Pays Tribute to Anshuman Gaekwad
Colombo: The Indian cricket team commenced their ODI series against Sri Lanka wearing black armbands to honor the late Anshuman Gaekwad, a former Indian cricketer and coach who passed away on Wednesday. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced this tribute through social media, highlighting Gaekwad's contributions to Indian cricket.
Gaekwad, who succumbed to cancer at the age of 71, played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India between 1975 and 1987 and later served as the team’s coach twice. The players wore the black armbands during the first ODI at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, where Sri Lanka chose to bat first after winning the toss.
IPL Teams Demand Ban on Players Who Skip the Tournament
Delhi: Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners have demanded that players who skip the tournament after being auctioned should be banned for at least two years. The team owners argue that some players withdraw without providing reasons, especially if they are sold for lower prices in the auction.
Foreign players are particularly targeted, as some participate only in the mini-auctions aiming for higher bids, assuming they might not get favorable deals in the mega auction. IPL team owners insist that such money-driven tactics should not be tolerated. Discussions about the retention policy for next year’s mega auction and the stance on foreign players are ongoing. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to make a final decision soon.
Gambhir Astonished by Sharma and Kohli's Batting
Colombo: Before the first ODI against Sri Lanka, the Indian team’s practice session saw coach Gautam Gambhir amazed by the batting prowess of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The duo was seen hitting impressive shots, with Gambhir observing their power and placement.
This ODI series marks the first time Sharma and Kohli are playing together since the T20 World Cup final. The return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer to the squad adds further excitement. Sharma commented on the wicketkeeper selection dilemma, acknowledging that both Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul are valuable players who have previously won matches for India. Sharma emphasized the importance of having such selection challenges, reflecting the team's strength.
Rohit Sharma on Team Selection Challenges
Colombo: Indian captain Rohit Sharma addressed the selection challenges for the wicketkeeper spot in the first ODI against Sri Lanka. He stated that both Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul are excellent players, making it difficult to choose between them. Sharma believes that having such problems is a positive sign of a strong team. Both players have previously contributed to India's success, and Sharma aims to retain both in the squad as long as he is captain.
Sharma clarified that the series against Sri Lanka is not a preparation for the Champions Trophy. Instead, it is an opportunity to assess the team's progress and perform well in international cricket. The first ODI is scheduled to start at 2:30 PM, with several changes in the Indian squad from the T20 series-winning team, including the return of Virat Kohli and other key players.
IPL 2025 Mega Auction Discussions
Delhi: The meeting regarding the IPL 2025 mega auction saw mixed opinions from team owners. While Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, and Rajasthan Royals favored a mini-auction, other teams like Punjab Kings, Lucknow Super Giants, Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Gujarat Titans supported the mega auction.
Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan argued against the mega auction, with Sunrisers owner Kaviya Maran supporting his stance. They emphasized the need for continuity in building a strong team and suggested retaining at least seven players. Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia opposed the mini-auction, and despite reports of heated discussions with Shah Rukh Khan, Wadia denied any confrontation.
Delhi Capitals raised concerns about the impact player rule and supported the mega auction. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah mentioned that a decision regarding the retention policy and auction format will be made soon, given the varied opinions from the teams.
إرسال تعليق