In a thrilling encounter with Sri Lanka, India’s Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj showcased fiery fast bowling, helping the unbeaten hosts secure a resounding 302-run victory and becoming the first team to guarantee their place in the semifinals.
Unbeatable India
This victory marked India’s seventh consecutive win in the 50-over World Cup, and it was arguably their most dominant performance. Sri Lanka’s batting lineup crumbled in under 20 overs while chasing a formidable target of 358 runs.
Sri Lanka’s Hopes Dashed
Sri Lanka’s pursuit got off to a nightmarish start. Jasprit Bumrah struck with the very first delivery of the match, and Mohammed Siraj followed suit by taking three quick wickets, leaving Sri Lanka at a perilous four for three runs.
Shami’s Heroics
Enter Mohammed Shami, who claimed a sensational five-wicket haul, ensuring India’s relentless march forward. Shami finished with remarkable figures of 5-18, while Mohammed Siraj contributed with three crucial wickets. Sri Lanka was eventually bowled out for just 55 runs, marking their lowest total in a 50-over World Cup.
India’s Batting Powerhouse
Earlier in the match, India’s Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill displayed commanding fifties and built a second-wicket partnership worth 189 runs, propelling the hosts to a total of 357 for eight.
Shreyas Iyer’s Heroics
Following the dismissals of Kohli and Gill, India’s number four, Shreyas Iyer, provided a late surge to the innings with a blazing 56-ball 82. Iyer’s performance included three fours and six sixes before Dilshan Madushanka, who ended with 5-80, secured his first five-wicket haul in the format.
Sri Lanka’s Early Triumph
Dilshan Madushanka gave Sri Lanka a dream start by dismissing India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, with the second ball of the innings after the island nation won the toss and opted to bowl.
Kohli and Gill’s Dominance
Virat Kohli made 88 off 94 balls, and Shubman Gill scored a run-a-ball 92, putting immense pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers. Gill survived a dropped catch at eight runs, while Kohli received an early reprieve when he was on 10.
