Manashimaya
In a gripping ODI encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Hasaranga and Asalanka’s triple strikes secured a thrilling tie between Sri Lanka and India in 2024. This match, played on a slow, dry pitch at the Khettarama Stadium, showcased the resilience of Sri Lanka’s bowlers and their ability to pull off a dramatic result despite being on the brink of defeat.
The match started with India needing just five runs off 18 balls, with two wickets in hand. It seemed like the game was theirs to win. However, Hasaranga and Asalanka’s triple strikes turned the tide in Sri Lanka’s favour. Shivam Dube, who had been the backbone of India’s chase with his power-hitting, was the first to fall. Dube had already levelled the scores by flaying Asalanka through the covers, but Asalanka trapped him lbw with a sharp slider from around the wicket, overturning the on-field decision with a successful review.
The crowd erupted in celebration, but Asalanka wasn’t done yet. On the very next ball, he pinned Arshdeep Singh lbw, sending the stadium into a frenzy. Arshdeep missed a slog sweep, and Asalanka’s delivery darted in to hit him in front of the stumps, securing the dramatic tie. Hasaranga and Asalanka’s triple strikes proved to be the turning point that prevented India from crossing the finish line.
Earlier in the match, Sri Lanka found themselves in a precarious position at 101 for 5, teetering on the brink of collapse. But it was Hasaranga and Asalanka’s triple strikes with the ball that helped them stay in the contest. Wellalage and Nissanka’s contributions with the bat laid a solid foundation, with Wellalage scoring an unbeaten 67 and Nissanka adding 56. Hasaranga and Asalanka’s triple strikes not only kept the pressure on India but also showcased the depth of Sri Lanka’s spin attack, even in the absence of key fast bowlers.
India’s innings began on a strong note, with Rohit Sharma leading from the front. Fresh out of T20I retirement, Rohit dominated the powerplay, smashing boundaries at will. His 58 off 47 balls set the tone for India’s chase, but Sri Lanka’s spinners, including Hasaranga and Asalanka, kept chipping away at the wickets. Hasaranga and Asalanka’s triple strikes in the middle overs were instrumental in derailing India’s momentum.
As the game went on, Dube—who made an important late cameo—became India’s main hope. However, triple strikes from Hasaranga and Asalanka, along with astute captaincy, made sure Sri Lanka remained in the match. Hasaranga in particular, one of Sri Lanka’s spinners, took full use of the pitch’s plenty of turn and bounce. The crucial moments when Hasaranga dismissed KL Rahul and Virat Kohli swung the match in Sri Lanka’s favor.
Triple strikes from Asalanka and Hasaranga sealed an exciting draw that left the series wide open. Sri Lanka’s resilience and the skill of its spinners were demonstrated by their ability to salvage a tie from a situation that looked hopeless. The exciting tie will be remembered as evidence of the power of Hasaranga and Asalanka’s triple strikes as the teams get ready for the next game.
