One of the biggest talking points ahead of the decider will be Anvay Dravid, son of India’s legendary captain Rahul Dravid, who impressed with a slick 87 in the second ODI despite India’s loss.
Anwei’s brilliant knock comes to nothing
Anvi scored 87 off just 67 balls in the attacking innings, hitting nine fours and a six as India recovered from their woes to reach 285 after electing to bat.
However, Sri Lanka chased down the target with ease, posting an eight-wicket win of 291/2 in 48 overs and leveling the series.
Mahavithana assists Sri Lanka in victory
Sri Lanka’s chase was led by opener Dimantha Mahavithana who remained unbeaten with 155 off 153 balls.
He first partnered with Senuja Wekunagoda (60) for the second wicket to score 103 and then scored an unbeaten 163 with captain Vimath Dinsara, who ended up with 56 not out to take the hosts home comfortably.
Anwai and Rajput save India
India were in trouble at 81/4 in the 19th over before Anvay and Arjun Rajput steadied the innings with a crucial 145-run partnership for the fifth wicket.
Rajput scored 76 off 81 balls before being dismissed by Mahavithana’s direct knock.
Anvi looked in complete control during his stay at the crease. He hit Chamika Heenatigala for a six and a four and completed his maiden youth ODI fifty in just 47 balls.
The first century looked within reach but left-arm pacer Gimhan Mendis dismissed him for 87. Mendis is Sri Lanka’s standout bowler with impressive figures of 5/41.
India failed to finish strongly
India’s game lost steam after Anvi was dismissed. They slipped from 263/7 to 285 all out, losing their last three wickets for just 22 runs.
India won the opening ODI by 4 wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the series after successfully chasing 321 runs with 4 balls remaining. Anwei only scored 14 points in that game but performed well in the second game by scoring 87 points.
The series is online
The series is currently tied at 1-1 and both teams will be hoping for a high score in the decider in Hambantota. India will hope Anvi can continue his good form, while Sri Lanka will once again look to Mahavitana’s batting as the two sides battle for the series title.
