In the first ODI played last Friday, India faced a very tough challenge from Sri Lanka, when India had to face trouble while chasing the target of 231 runs.
At one time India’s position looked very strong, when they had scored 130 runs for three wickets. But the Sri Lankan spinners put the Indian batsmen in trouble, and bundled out India for 230 runs and tied the match.
According to experts, the main focus of India’s strategy in the second ODI cricket match to be held in Colombo on Sunday will be to test its strategy against the Sri Lankan pitch and their slow bowlers.
The challenge of Sri Lankan spinners
India’s batting difficulty in front of Sri Lankan spinners proved that they are not comfortable on turning pitches. Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka gave full support to his bowlers to implement their strategy against India’s top and middle order batsmen.
Batsmen like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer had to face a lot of trouble in front of this strategy. Left-arm spinner Dunith Velalage and leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga tied down India’s key batsmen and changed the direction of the match by taking their wickets.
Challenges of Indian batting against Sri Lankan spinners and slow pitch for the second ODI
Kohli and Rahul showed strength in their batting, but it became difficult for them to remain in their rhythm in front of the accuracy of the Sri Lankan bowlers. Velalage and Hasaranga imprisoned the Indian batsmen with their spin, due to which the Indian batsmen lost wickets early.
Hasaranga gave a big blow to the Indian innings by dismissing Kohli, while Shreyas Iyer’s difficulties increased against the spinners. Hasaranga also made Rahul his victim, which gave a big blow to the Indian team.
Possible strategy of the Indian team for the second ODI
According to the experts, a change in India’s strategy will be necessary for the second match. The team will have to focus on keeping its batting stable and rotating the strike. The strategy of batting for a long time on the Sri Lankan pitch will have to be adopted.
The Indian team has to understand that they need special strategies to bat effectively against spinners.
To handle this situation, the idea of including Rishabh Pant or Riyan Parag in the team can be considered. Both these players are capable of facing spinners and can disturb the rhythm of the bowlers by playing their unconventional shots.
The second ODI between India and Sri Lanka will see a strategic matchup. India will have to face the challenge of the Sri Lankan pitch and spinners, while Sri Lanka will have to maintain their fitness and morale.
The team that plays with better strategy and mental toughness in this match will decide the direction of victory. Get ready for spectators and applause for this exciting match of cricket, as this match is definitely going to make an important place in the world of sports.
