Asia Cup 2023: India faces gruelling back-to-back ODI matches amidst rain disruptions

Playing three consecutive days of ODI cricket at the international level is indeed a rarity. Unfortunately, persistent rainfall in Colombo has created quite a challenge for the organizers as they strive to accommodate matches within a tightly packed schedule. Originally, India had a day off between their fixtures against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. However, due to the activation of the reserve day mode for the match against arch-rivals Pakistan, India now finds themselves in the midst of intense cricket action for three consecutive days. It’s worth noting that the decision to introduce the reserve day was made in agreement with all the participating boards in the Super Fours stage of the Asia Cup 2023.

India – Team News

Only 16 hours after their triumphant victory over Pakistan, India faces off against co-hosts Sri Lanka at the R.Premadasa Stadium (RPS) in Colombo. Sri Lanka, riding a 13-match winning streak, has been in phenomenal form, making this clash all the more exciting. Expectations were high for the Indian batsmen, particularly the top order, to bounce back against the Pakistani pacers following their performance in the group stage. However, the extent of their resurgence was nothing short of remarkable. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a blazing start with superb half-centuries, defying the new ball’s challenge after being asked to bat first. A prolonged rain delay interrupted proceedings, but the unwavering focus and determination of Virat Kohli and the returning KL Rahul stood out. Rahul, stepping in for the injured Shreyas Iyer, capitalized on the opportunity and marked his return with a memorable performance. Kohli orchestrated a masterful century, his fourth consecutive one at RPS, forming an unbroken partnership of 233 runs alongside KL Rahul, propelling India to a massive total of 356 runs.

Read More: ICC ODI World Cup 2023 Schedule

The Indian bowlers complemented their batting counterparts brilliantly. Jasprit Bumrah made his first appearance in this Asia Cup, swinging the ball effectively and creating troubles for Pakistan’s openers, with valuable support from Mohammed Siraj. Hardik Pandya and Shardul Thakur displayed their skills, while Kuldeep Yadav’s spin magic dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup. India’s resounding 228-run victory was their fourth-largest in ODIs and the fourth-largest in Asia Cup history. As the team prepares for continuous matches, including the upcoming World Cup, player recovery is paramount. While the winning XI may persist for at least one more game, rotation, especially among the fast bowlers, remains a possibility.

Sri Lanka – Team News

On the other hand, Sri Lanka has capitalized on crucial moments and secured 13 consecutive ODI victories, just shy of Australia’s record of 21 consecutive wins. Despite key bowlers like Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, and Dilshan Madushanka nursing injuries, their presence in the practice nets is promising news for the Sri Lankan Board. Sri Lanka advanced as Group B toppers, albeit facing a scare against Afghanistan. Their confidence stems from two impressive wins against Bangladesh in what is colloquially referred to as the ‘Naagin Derby.’

While Kusal Mendis led the charge with another ODI fifty, Sri Lanka faced a challenge from the pace trio of Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, and Hasan Mahmud. However, a gritty knock of 93 by Sadeera Samarawickrama and a collective effort from the bowlers secured a competitive total against Bangladesh. Both teams have secured victories in their respective Super Four openers, accumulating two points each with a commendable net run rate. India holds a significant advantage in terms of net run rate, topping the points table for this round. The winner of this encounter will move closer to securing a spot in the final, provided the weather cooperates, although that remains a forecasted challenge