India Vs Srilanka T20: Srilanka Wins by 29 runs

Twenty20 cricket is often about hammer and tongs but Kumar Sangakkara took batting to a different plane. In a fine exhibition of aggressive batting, the Lankan captain hammered Indian bowling attack to score a splendid 78 in 37 balls, taking Lanka to a massive 215 for five. In the end, it proved 29 runs too many, as India finished with 186 for nine after 20 overs. Incidentally, it was India’s fourth loss in a row in T20 internationals.

The captain, who got run out on the last ball of the match, led from the front and other batsmen pitched in with valuable contributions. Sangakkara, in his innings, scored 11 fours and 2 sixes and won the man-of-the-match award for his brilliant effort. The Lankan innings, which was a magnificent run feast, included 29 boundaries and 5 sixes.

In reply, India started off well, with openers Gautam Gambhir and Virender Sehwag. Nuwan Kulasekhara provided the Lankans with the  first breakthrough. He had Sehwag caught at deep point for a 14-ball 26.

Gambhir was in murderous mood, piercing off-side at will. He pulverized the Lankan bowling attack with a barrage of shots. Angelo Mathews removed him with a fuller delivery, knocking off his stumps in the ninth over.

Thereafter, Indian middle-order returned to pavilion in a procession. The humiliation was complete when India could only manage 186 for nine after 20 overs. India would be looking to respond strongly when the two teams meet for the second T20 International at Mohali on Saturday.

Source: Cricket Nirvana