Jeffrey Vandersay delivered a match-winning performance with the ball, claiming six wickets and leading Sri Lanka to a 32-run victory over India in the second ODI of their three-match series. Despite a determined chase, India was bowled out for 208 in pursuit of a 241-run target, leaving the series level at 1-1.

Sri Lanka’s innings

Sri Lanka set a competitive total of 240 for 9, thanks to crucial contributions from Avishka Fernando and Kamindu Mendis, who both scored 40 runs. Fernando provided stability with his steady batting, while Mendis added valuable runs in the middle order. For India, Washington Sundar was the standout bowler, taking 3 wickets for 30 runs with his disciplined spin. Kuldeep Yadav supported well, claiming 2 wickets for 33 runs. Their combined efforts in the bowling department will be crucial as India looks to chase down the target.

India’s chase and magical spell from Jeffrey Vandersay 

India’s chase began positively with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill adding 97 runs for the first wicket. However, the innings took a dramatic turn when Vandersay dismissed Rohit Sharma for 64. Gill followed soon after, scoring 35 before Vandersay struck again. Shivam Dube, promoted up the order, was dismissed for a duck in the same over. The middle order collapsed as Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul all fell to Vandersay’s incisive bowling. India’s score plummeted from a promising 97/0 to a precarious 147/6, with Vandersay claiming all six wickets.

Late resistance by Axar Patel

Axar Patel and Washington Sundar fought to stabilize India’s innings with a crucial 38-run partnership. However, their efforts were curtailed when Charith Asalanka dismissed both within just five runs. Asalanka’s impact was significant as he also claimed the ninth wicket, Mohammed Siraj, reducing India to 201. The innings concluded with a run-out, sealing Sri Lanka’s victory and confirming their dominance in the match.

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