The victory gave India an unassailable 3–0 lead in the five match series and underlined their growing dominance ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, India produced a complete performance with both bat and ball. The bowlers laid the foundation before the batters delivered one of the fastest chases seen on Indian soil in recent years.

New Zealand were put under pressure early after India chose to field first on a pitch expected to favour batting. The visitors never fully recovered from early losses and were restricted to a modest total of 153 for nine in their allotted overs.

Jasprit Bumrah spearheaded the bowling effort with clinical precision and pace. He finished with outstanding figures, repeatedly breaking partnerships and denying New Zealand any chance of building momentum.

The early breakthrough came when Devon Conway was removed by a sharp catch, followed by the quick dismissal of Rachin Ravindra.
New Zealand slumped early as disciplined bowling and sharp fielding combined to leave them chasing the game from the outset.

Bumrah’s opening spell further dented the visitors as key batters failed to handle his movement and accuracy.
The fall of Tim Seifert and later the New Zealand captain ensured the innings never gained stability.

A brief resistance came through Glenn Phillips and Mark Chapman, who attempted to rebuild with a controlled partnership.
However, their efforts were halted by spin, restoring India’s grip on the match during the middle overs.

Despite a late push, New Zealand could not push the total beyond a challenging score. On a ground known for high scoring games, the target looked well below par given India’s batting depth and intent.

India’s chase began with aggression despite an early wicket. Abhishek Sharma announced his intent immediately, striking boundaries at will and dismantling the New Zealand bowling attack.

His unbeaten knock of 68 came off just 20 deliveries and included a flurry of towering sixes. The innings featured a record breaking half century that showcased fearless stroke play and exceptional timing.

Abhishek found strong support from captain Suryakumar Yadav, who continued his remarkable run of form in the series. The pair combined effortlessly, turning the chase into a one sided contest within a few overs.

India raced to fifty in no time and reached triple figures before New Zealand could regroup.
The required rate became irrelevant as the crowd witnessed a masterclass in modern T20 batting.

Suryakumar’s composed yet explosive knock ensured there were no late stumbles. India crossed the finish line in just ten overs, underlining the gulf between the two sides on the night.

The result highlights India’s depth, confidence, and adaptability in the shortest format. With key players peaking at the right time, the team looks well prepared for the global challenge ahead.

New Zealand, meanwhile, will look to regroup and salvage pride in the remaining matches. The next fixture offers them a chance to test their bench strength and experiment with combinations.

The fourth match of the series is scheduled to be played in Visakhapatnam. Fans will be eager to see whether India continue their dominant run or if New Zealand can stage a comeback.

The three-match ODI series is being seen as an important opportunity for India to rebuild rhythm, strengthen team combinations, and sharpen competitive readiness ahead of major international commitments.

Gill’s return brings stability to the leadership group and confidence to a squad focused on long-term preparation.

After spending weeks away from competitive cricket, the captain has spoken about the importance of patience, discipline, and mental strength during rehabilitation, emphasizing how the break allowed him to reflect on leadership responsibilities and team direction.

The upcoming series is expected to play a key role in India’s broader planning for the future of limited-overs cricket.

Each match offers valuable insights into player adaptability, tactical execution, and the ability to perform under varied conditions, helping the team management refine its approach with clarity and balance.

India’s strategy for the series centers on evaluating players in real match scenarios rather than relying solely on training performances.

Gill has highlighted that bilateral series are vital stepping stones, allowing the team to identify dependable performers while also giving emerging players the space to express themselves with confidence and intent.

The return of experienced campaigners adds depth and assurance to the Indian lineup.

Senior players bring composure and match awareness that complement the energy and ambition of younger teammates, creating a balanced environment where learning and performance go hand in hand. This blend remains a cornerstone of India’s ODI philosophy.

Gill has acknowledged that leading a national side involves constant learning, particularly during phases of recovery and transition.

He has stressed the importance of focusing on controllable factors such as preparation, fitness, and mindset, rather than dwelling on missed opportunities. This approach has shaped his calm and forward-looking leadership style.

The New Zealand series also offers India the chance to test combinations across batting, bowling, and fielding units.

Conditions in Vadodara and subsequent venues will challenge players to adapt quickly, reinforcing flexibility and situational awareness, qualities that are essential in modern one-day cricket.

Team management continues to emphasize consistency and adaptability as key performance indicators.

The focus is not solely on outcomes, but on how effectively players execute plans, respond to pressure, and support each other on the field. Gill’s leadership is expected to reinforce these values throughout the series.

India’s ODI setup remains firmly focused on sustained progress rather than short-term gains. The emphasis on preparation, rotation, and role clarity reflects a long-term vision aimed at maintaining competitiveness across global tournaments while managing player workloads responsibly.

As the first match approaches, anticipation surrounds Gill’s return as captain and the team’s overall balance. The series represents a fresh chapter marked by recovery, readiness, and renewed ambition, offering India an ideal platform to build momentum with confidence and composure.

Looking ahead, the New Zealand ODI series stands as another important milestone in India’s evolving cricket journey.

With a fit captain, experienced support, and a clear strategic outlook, the team enters the contest focused on growth, unity, and consistent performance at the highest level.

The recent Test series ended in a tough setback for India, as the team suffered a narrow defeat in Kolkata followed by a heavy loss in Guwahati that exposed several weaknesses.

Rahul, appointed captain for the start of the ODI series due to Shubman Gill’s temporary absence with a neck issue, stressed that the team’s priority now is to regroup quickly and deliver a strong performance in Ranchi on Sunday.

The skipper said the players were keen to shift their mindset, reminding everyone that the outcome of the past week should not overshadow the opportunities ahead.

He noted that the ODI format brings a fresh start, and the squad is focused on building momentum one match at a time through disciplined teamwork.

Rahul highlighted that winning the series step by step is the ultimate goal, as India prepares for intense competition from a South African side that has arrived with confidence and intent.

He added that thinking too much about the Test setbacks would hold the team back, and the players instead must channel their energy into executing a clean, collective strategy.

A major boost for the Indian lineup comes with the return of cricket icons Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of whom recently retired from Test cricket but remain important leaders in the limited-overs formats.

Rahul praised their presence, saying experienced players bring composure and belief, something that can elevate the dressing-room atmosphere and positively influence younger team members.

He said that having two senior figures with world-class credentials helps the entire squad feel more grounded, especially at a time when the team is looking to strengthen its identity in white-ball cricket.

Bowling coach Morne Morkel also expressed optimism ahead of the ODI series, explaining that the transition from red-ball to white-ball cricket injects new energy and a refreshed mindset.

Morkel said that the change in format and playing conditions often brings out a different rhythm in players, allowing them to rediscover confidence and approach the next challenge with renewed purpose.

He added that starting the series well would be critical, as South Africa have arrived determined to showcase strong performances and push India throughout the tour.

Morkel emphasized that India’s blend of youth and experience provides balance, and the upcoming matches will reveal how efficiently the team adjusts and responds under pressure.

The South African coach underscored the importance of intensity from the first game, pointing out that the visitors are well-prepared and eager to capitalize on India’s recent vulnerabilities.

India and South Africa will compete in three ODI matches between Sunday and December 6, before turning their attention to a series of five T20 Internationals that will further test the teams’ depth and adaptability.

Both sides recognize the value of strong early performances in setting the tone, and the Ranchi opener is expected to draw significant attention as fans anticipate India’s response after the Test disappointment.

Rahul’s final message to the squad centered on unity and clarity, as he urged every player to trust the team’s plan and put forward contributions that can collectively shape the outcome.

With star players returning and a renewed focus on limited-overs cricket, India aims to rebuild confidence, stabilize form, and remind supporters of the team’s resilience and competitive spirit.

Gill suffered the injury while batting in the first Test in Kolkata, and the issue forced him to miss the second Test as well, leading team management to extend his recovery period to ensure full fitness before his return to international cricket.

The decision to hand over the ODI captaincy to Rahul provides continuity and experience, as he has led India in limited-overs cricket on several previous occasions, showing a calm approach and tactical awareness during high-pressure situations.

Rishabh Pant, who stepped in as captain during Gill’s absence in the Test format, has also been included in the ODI squad, marking an important return to the 50-over format after more than a year away from the international stage.

Pant’s last ODI appearance came in August 2024, and his comeback will be closely watched, as he continues to rebuild his form, fitness and match rhythm across multiple formats following setbacks earlier in his career.

The team announcement also brought positive news for Ruturaj Gaikwad, who earned his place back in the ODI squad after a strong run representing India A, where he scored both a century and a half-century earlier this month.

Gaikwad’s consistency, timing and ability to anchor an innings were highlighted during his India A performances, reinforcing his case for selection as India seeks depth in its top-order batting ahead of a busy cricket calendar.

The ODI series, scheduled from November 30 to December 6, will serve as an important opportunity for India to test combinations, strengthen squad balance and assess player form before shifting its focus to the five-match T20I series that follows.

Team management is expected to rotate players strategically during the tour, ensuring that key performers maintain workload balance while younger squad members gain valuable exposure in challenging South African conditions.

The squad features a blend of established senior players, rising talents and specialists across batting, bowling and all-round roles, demonstrating India’s emphasis on flexibility and multi-skill depth in the 50-over format.

Veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retain their places in the ODI setup, bringing leadership and experience, while younger players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tilak Varma will look to strengthen their presence in white-ball cricket.

The all-round capabilities of Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja add balance to the team composition, offering spin depth, lower-order resilience and valuable experience playing in overseas conditions.

In the bowling department, India has opted for a mix of pace and spin, with Kuldeep Yadav providing wrist-spin variety and options like Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana offering different seam bowling strengths.

The selection of Dhruv Jurel further indicates India’s focus on grooming multi-role cricketers capable of performing across formats, particularly as backup wicketkeeping options remain a central part of long-term planning.

Team analysts and coaches believe the South Africa tour will provide meaningful insights into India’s ODI preparedness, especially as the team looks ahead to future global tournaments where conditions and opposition strategies vary widely.

As Gill continues his rehabilitation, medical staff remain confident in his progress, stressing that the decision to rest him is precautionary and aimed at ensuring he returns at full strength for upcoming assignments.

The tour is expected to attract significant attention from fans, as India experiments with its lineup while maintaining competitiveness, leadership stability and a renewed focus on building a stronger ODI unit.

India ODI Squad: KL Rahul (C), Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Dhruv Jurel.

Despite the low-scoring nature of the match, Gambhir reiterated that the pitch held no hidden surprises. He said there were “no demons” and that strong technique and patience were the keys to scoring.

India were chasing 124 for victory but finished at 93, ending the match inside three days. Yet the contest was exciting, intense and full of moments that showcased cricket’s unpredictable beauty.

Gambhir defended the decision to prepare a pitch offering both spin and seam assistance. He highlighted that such wickets develop temperament, technique and adaptability for long-term success.

According to the coach, it was not a typical turning track, nor was it unfair to batters. He pointed out that most wickets fell to seamers, proving that the surface offered balanced opportunities.

Gambhir also stressed that modern Test cricket requires players to handle a variety of challenging conditions. He said the pitch rewarded those who defended well and punished only those who lost patience.

He noted that matches like these build character and push players to elevate their mental toughness. Gambhir remained optimistic that the team would learn quickly and respond strongly in the next match.

South Africa’s first-innings lead of 30 runs proved crucial in the final outcome. On the third morning, the visitors resumed at 97-3 and looked briefly under pressure from India’s bowlers.

But South Africa captain Temba Bavuma played a remarkable unbeaten knock of 55. His calmness and clarity helped his side set a competitive target despite a swinging, turning ball.

Bavuma’s innings was praised as a masterclass in patience and disciplined defence under pressure.He built a vital 44-run stand with Corbin Bosch for the eighth wicket, frustrating India’s bowlers.

The South African skipper admitted the bounce was tricky, with some deliveries rising sharply while others stayed low. Even so, he backed his defence and stuck to his simple, compact style of play.

His innings reflected pure concentration and smart shot selection in conditions where aggression was risky. Players from both sides struggled to attack freely, making Bavuma’s stability even more admirable.

India, meanwhile, were effectively a batter short. Captain Shubman Gill did not bat in the second innings after retiring hurt earlier with a neck injury.

Even with one less batter, the Indian team fought bravely and kept the match alive till the final sessions. Their bowlers consistently created pressure, showing discipline and commitment throughout.

Gambhir praised the Indian bowlers for exploiting the conditions smartly and maintaining intensity.
He said the team displayed passion and resilience even in difficult phases.

He also expressed confidence that the squad will bounce back with renewed focus in the next Test. Gambhir emphasised that setbacks like these are part of a larger learning journey for a young team.

The coach highlighted that Test cricket’s charm lies in such unpredictable, low-scoring thrillers. He believes conditions like Kolkata’s help prepare teams for diverse global challenges.

Cricket lovers enjoyed a gripping contest where bowlers dominated and batters had to earn every run. The match showcased the beauty of traditional red-ball cricket, where grit often outweighs flamboyance.

As India prepare for the next match, optimism remains high. Gambhir’s belief in his team, combined with the players’ hunger to improve, sets a positive tone.

The Kolkata Test may not have gone India’s way, but it delivered valuable experience and lessons. Both sides walked away with admiration for Bavuma’s composure and India’s fighting spirit.

A rain-hit finale at the Gabba ended India’s tour of Australia on a high note, sealing a 2-1 T20 series win and giving captain Suryakumar Yadav’s men valuable momentum ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup.

India emerged as the winners of the five-match Twenty20 International series against Australia after the final game in Brisbane was abandoned due to persistent rain. The result confirmed a 2-1 series victory for the visitors, who dominated the latter part of the tour with consistent performances and strong teamwork.

The match began brightly for India, with openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill delivering a solid start at the Gabba. The duo added 52 runs in less than five overs, thrilling the crowd before lightning forced play to halt. Gill was unbeaten on 29 off just 17 balls, smashing six crisp boundaries, while Abhishek remained not out on 23, having survived two dropped catches by Glenn Maxwell and Ben Dwarshuis.

Despite hopes for a restart, heavy rain and thunderstorms continued for hours, leaving the sold-out Brisbane crowd disappointed. Match officials officially called off the game after a delay of more than two hours, confirming India as the series winners.

The series saw competitive cricket between the two world-leading teams. The first T20 in Canberra was also washed out before Australia took the second match in Melbourne, thanks to a disciplined spell from pacer Josh Hazlewood. However, with Hazlewood and other senior players withdrawn for Ashes preparations, India fought back strongly, winning the third T20 in Hobart by five wickets and the fourth on the Gold Coast by a convincing 48-run margin.

Abhishek Sharma, one of India’s rising stars, was named Player of the Series for his impressive 163 runs at an average of 40.75. His aggressive intent and fearless batting style gave India crucial momentum throughout the contest. Speaking after the series, captain Suryakumar Yadav praised his team for their resilience and balance. “The way everybody chipped in each game and helped us come back from one match down shows how united this team is. It was a complete team effort,” Yadav said.

The series highlighted India’s depth in the shortest format, with both established and emerging players making an impact. The likes of Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, and Arshdeep Singh delivered confident performances, giving the selectors multiple options ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which India will host next year.

Australia’s stand-in captain, Mitch Marsh, congratulated the Indian side, acknowledging their consistency and ability to perform under pressure. “I thought all in all it was a good series, two teams really going at it,” Marsh said. “India won the games when it mattered, so congratulations to them.”

The series win also solidifies India’s position at the top of the ICC T20 rankings. Analysts say the victory, though partly influenced by rain interruptions, reflects India’s growing strength in adapting to varying pitch conditions and their strategic balance between youth and experience. The performances of all-rounders and middle-order batters demonstrated that India’s T20 setup is evolving with a modern, attacking mindset.

For the Australian team, the absence of key Ashes players offered younger talents a chance to gain international exposure. While their bowlers impressed in spells, the lack of finishing power in the batting lineup proved decisive. Still, Australia’s management expressed optimism about their squad depth, pointing to the close margins in several matches.

The series also served as a testing ground for India’s bowling attack, which showed marked improvement in death-over control and wicket-taking consistency. Players like Mukesh Kumar and Ravi Bishnoi impressed with their variations, providing encouraging signs for the coaching staff led by Rahul Dravid.

As the Indian team prepares to return home, the focus now shifts to fine-tuning strategies for the T20 World Cup defense. The players’ adaptability across formats, combined with their mental resilience during rain-affected games, underscores India’s readiness for global competition.

India’s dominance in the series, capped by the washed-out finale, reinforces their status as favorites heading into 2026. For fans, it was a reminder of the team’s depth, spirit, and drive to maintain their reputation as one of the most dynamic forces in world cricket.

In front of more than 42,000 passionate fans, the match offered both teams an opportunity to test new combinations ahead of a packed cricket calendar. Despite the weather interruptions and challenging conditions, Australia showcased their depth, balance, and adaptability to seal a strong win over the visitors.

Marsh’s Leadership and Form Inspire Australia

Deputizing for Pat Cummins, who is recovering from a back injury, Marsh once again proved why he has become a key figure in Australian cricket. His composed 46 not out, featuring three massive sixes, highlighted his ability to anchor an innings while maintaining aggression.

Building on his recent run of form against South Africa and New Zealand, Marsh’s innings was a perfect blend of control and power. His leadership was equally impressive, as he rotated his bowlers intelligently and maintained composure through multiple rain interruptions.

“It’s always great to lead the team and contribute to a win,” Marsh said post-match. “The conditions weren’t easy, but our bowlers set the tone, and that made the chase much smoother.”

Australian Bowlers Dominate Early

The home side’s bowling unit executed their plans to perfection. Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc delivered fiery opening spells, dismissing Indian stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early. Both batters were returning to the 50-over setup for the first time since India’s Champions Trophy win in March, but Australia’s pace duo didn’t allow them to settle.

Hazlewood, known for his consistent line and length, claimed two crucial wickets, while left-armer Starc’s early swing proved too challenging for India’s top order. Spinner Matthew Kuhnemann further tightened the screws, taking 2-26 and earning praise for his control and variation.

“Our bowling group executed perfectly,” Kuhnemann said. “Getting early wickets against world-class players like Rohit and Kohli makes all the difference.”

India’s Bright Spots Amid Challenges

Despite the defeat, there were encouraging signs for India. KL Rahul and Axar Patel provided resistance in the middle order with solid contributions of 38 and 31 respectively. Their partnership steadied the innings after a shaky start and ensured India reached a competitive total of 136-9 in 26 overs before rain reduced the game.

Youngster Nitish Kumar Reddy also impressed, playing a spirited cameo of 19 runs off 11 balls, displaying aggressive intent that could serve India well in future fixtures. Skipper Shubman Gill, though dismissed cheaply, remains confident of a stronger showing in the next matches.

“We knew we were short on runs, but our bowlers gave their all,” said Arshdeep Singh, who picked up a wicket and fielded energetically throughout. “This is a long series, and we’ll bounce back.”

Confident Chase and Team Depth

Australia’s chase was measured and confident from the outset. Josh Philippe, returning to ODI action for the first time since 2021, partnered Marsh effectively, striking a fluent 37. His positive intent set the tone, and even after his dismissal to Arshdeep Singh, the momentum never wavered.

Matt Renshaw added a composed 21 not out, guiding Australia across the line in 21.1 overs. The smooth run chase highlighted Australia’s batting depth and their ability to remain composed under pressure.

The win gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the next game scheduled in Adelaide on Thursday before the finale in Sydney on Saturday. For India, it’s an opportunity to regroup, reassess strategies, and return stronger with their experienced batting lineup.

As both teams gear up for the next fixture, the first ODI served as a reminder of Australia’s growing confidence and India’s potential to fight back. With Marsh leading from the front and new talents stepping up, Australia’s balance between experience and youth continues to shine on the international stage.

Although the young opener narrowly missed a double century, his classy innings reflected maturity, focus, and determination — a testament to India’s growing bench strength and consistency in red-ball cricket.

Jaiswal, who has been in sublime form throughout the series, once again proved why he is considered one of the most exciting prospects in Indian cricket. His 175-run masterpiece at the Arun Jaitley Stadium was filled with elegant cover drives, crisp cuts, and well-timed boundaries — a mix of composure and aggression that kept the West Indies bowlers under constant pressure.

The left-hander looked nearly invincible at the crease, and though his dismissal came due to an unfortunate mix-up with skipper Shubman Gill, his contribution had already set India on course for a massive first-innings total.

The partnership between Jaiswal and Gill was central to India’s dominance. Gill, calm and composed, remained unbeaten on 75 at lunch, showcasing fine temperament and shot selection. His footwork against spin and timing off the back foot hinted at a player rediscovering his rhythm in the longest format.

The pair added crucial runs for the third wicket, keeping the scoreboard ticking and frustrating the West Indies bowlers who struggled to find any consistent breakthroughs.

While the run-out was a heartbreaking moment for Jaiswal and fans alike, it also reflected the healthy communication and energy within the Indian camp. The mix-up was merely a rare blip in an otherwise flawless batting display. Jaiswal’s innings, decorated with 22 elegant fours, stood as a hallmark of patience blended with controlled aggression — an innings that will be remembered for its technical brilliance rather than its premature end.

After Jaiswal’s departure, young Dhruv Jurel joined Gill in the middle. Jurel, known for his cool temperament and neat technique, looked solid at the crease, remaining unbeaten on seven at the break. His role in supporting Gill and rotating the strike was crucial in maintaining India’s momentum.

Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was promoted to number five, injected life into the innings with his aggressive approach. He capitalized on loose deliveries, striking a couple of big sixes and maintaining a brisk scoring rate before being dismissed for a lively 43 runs.

India’s commanding total of 427-4 by lunch further underlined their control over the match. The West Indies bowlers — despite showing flashes of discipline — found it difficult to contain the fluent Indian batting order.

Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican, and Anderson Phillip tried to apply pressure, but India’s depth and balance ensured steady progress. Phillip’s dropped catch of Reddy at mid-off only added to the visitors’ frustration, as India continued to pile up runs with ease.

India’s first-Test victory in Ahmedabad within three days already showcased their dominance, and now, with a strong position in the second Test, they are eyeing a 2-0 series sweep.

The team’s blend of youth and experience — represented by players like Jaiswal, Gill, and Jurel — reflects the depth of Indian cricket’s new generation. Their ability to adapt across conditions and formats continues to make India a formidable side at home and abroad.

As play resumes, all eyes will be on Gill to convert his solid start into a big score and further strengthen India’s grip on the match. With the middle order yet to come and the pitch still offering plenty for batters, India looks poised for a mammoth total that could put the game beyond the West Indies’ reach.

The morning session might have seen a momentary setback in Jaiswal’s run-out, but the broader picture remains one of dominance, confidence, and collective excellence. With both bat and ball, India’s approach in this series reflects a team in complete control — a side that continues to grow stronger with every outing, turning every challenge into an opportunity for brilliance.

With India having already secured their place in Sunday’s final against Pakistan and Sri Lanka eliminated, the Super Fours clash was of merely academic interest but it turned out to be the most exciting game of this year’s tournament.

Sri Lanka gave a good account of themselves and matched India’s 202-5 to force the Super Over after Nissanka (107) smashed the first individual hundred of this year’s tournament.

Sri Lanka, however, managed only two runs in the Super Over before losing both the wickets in five deliveries from Arshdeep Singh.

India skipper Suryakumar Yadav took three runs from the first delivery from Wanindu Hasaranga to seal their victory in a matter-of-fact way.

Earlier, put into bat, 20-overs world champions India racked up the tournament’s first 200-plus total riding opener Abhishek Sharma’s third consecutive fifty in the tournament.

Abhishek, the world’s top-ranked T20 batter, maintained his red-hot form with a sizzling 61 off 31 balls.

Opening partner Shubman Gill fell for four and skipper Suryakumar’s (12) slump in form continued but India did not really suffer as Abhishek raced to a 22-ball fifty.

Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka removed Abhishek but Tilak Varma, who made 49 not out, and Sanju Samson (39) maintained the pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers.

In their chase, Sri Lanka lost Kusal Mendis for a duck in the first over but cruised to 72-1 after the six powerplay overs.

India rested pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, while Hardik Pandya bowled just one over before leaving the field.

Nissanka needed 25 balls to bring up his fifty and Kusal Perera (58) could not be denied his half-century either.

Spinner Varun Chakravarthy broke the 127-run stand when he dismissed Perera.

Nissanka raced to a 52-ball hundred but fell in the first ball of the last over, which ended with Sri Lanka also on 202-5 forcing the Super Over.