India’s cricketing juggernaut continues to roll in the ICC World Cup as they clinched a stunning 302-run victory against Sri Lanka, becoming the first team to secure a spot in the semifinals. This win marks India’s seventh consecutive victory in the 50-over tournament, and it was undoubtedly their most dominant performance yet.
India set a formidable target of 358 runs for Sri Lanka, who struggled to withstand the fiery fast bowling of India’s Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj. Sri Lanka’s innings lasted just under 20 overs, culminating in a disappointing total of 55 runs, their lowest in a 50-over World Cup match.
Sri Lanka’s chase got off to a disastrous start, with Jasprit Bumrah taking a wicket with the very first delivery. Mohammed Siraj followed suit, picking up the next three wickets, reducing Sri Lanka to a precarious four for three runs.
The relentless pace attack continued with Mohammed Shami, who secured a five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 5-18. Mohammed Siraj played a crucial role, taking three wickets for just 16 runs, as India completely dismantled Sri Lanka’s batting lineup.
India’s batting performance was equally impressive. Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill put on a dominant display, with a second-wicket partnership of 189 runs. Kohli contributed 88 runs off 94 balls, while Gill scored a brisk 92 runs from 92 deliveries. Shreyas Iyer, batting at number four, added a late flourish to the innings with a blistering 56-ball 82, featuring three fours and six sixes.
Dilshan Madushanka was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, finishing with figures of 5-80, including the crucial wickets of Kohli and Gill in quick succession.
The match began with a dream start for Sri Lanka as Madushanka dismissed India’s captain Rohit Sharma with the second ball of the innings. However, the early setback did not deter India, as Kohli and Gill built a formidable partnership, putting the Sri Lankan bowlers under immense pressure.
With this remarkable victory, India solidifies its position as a top contender in the ICC World Cup, while Sri Lanka’s chances of advancing to the knockout stage have dimmed with their fifth defeat in seven matches. Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting more thrilling encounters in this exciting tournament.
