SL v IND 2021: “Think we were 50 runs short”, admits Shikhar Dhawan after India’s loss in third ODI

Team India got bowled out for a below-par 225 in the final game of the ODI series.

By Salman Anjum - 24 Jul, 2021

Sri Lanka on Friday (July 23) registered a consolation three-wicket victory over India in the third and final ODI at R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.

Opting to bat first, the visitors got bowled out for a below-par 225 in 43.1 overs in a rain-marred 47-over-per-side contest.

It was a disappointing batting performance from India as none of the batters managed to touch the 50-run mark. Prithvi Shaw was the top scorer with 49 while debutant Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav contributed 46 and 40, respectively.

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Chasing the revised target of 227, the hosts rode on Avishka Fernando’s 98-ball 76 and Bhanuka Rajapaksa’s 56-ball 65 to get over the line with 48 balls to spare.

Reflecting on the loss, India skipper Shikhar Dhawan admitted that they were 50 runs short of the par score.

"Things didn't go our way after rain break. We had a good start but lost too many wickets in the middle. Think we were 50 runs short. I am glad that they made their debut because everyone has been in the quarantine for a long time," Dhawan said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"So we had that opportunity today having sealed the series. I always analyse where I can improve and get better. We were positive about defending the target but at the same time, we knew we were 50 runs short. I am happy with the way the boys fought," he added.

Despite the loss, Team India clinched the ODI series 2-1, having registered victories in the first two games.

While Dhawan and company had recorded a comprehensive seven-wicket victory in the series opener, they won the thrilling second ODI by three wickets.

Both the teams will now square off in three T20Is on July 25, July 27 and July 29, respectively.

(With ANI inputs)

By Salman Anjum - 24 Jul, 2021

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