In the second ODI against Sri Lanka, India suffered a heavy defeat by 32 runs. Sri Lanka set a target of 241 runs for India, but the Indian team was bowled out for 208 runs before completing 50 overs in IND Vs SL match. Despite a strong start by captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, the middle-order batsmen failed to capitalize on it, causing India to fall behind in the series. Let’s take a look at the five players who can be held responsible for India’s defeat in the second ODI.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli was the main reason for India’s defeat in the second ODI against Sri Lanka. He has been disappointing with the bat, scoring only 38 runs in two matches. Despite strong starts from the openers, Kohli couldn’t capitalize on it. In the second ODI, he scored only 14 runs, which is why Team India failed to chase down 241 runs.
Shreyas Iyer
Since his return to Team India, Shreyas Iyer has struggled with his batting. In the second ODI against Sri Lanka, he was dismissed after scoring only 7 runs. He had the chance to stabilize Team India during a tough situation with wickets falling, but he couldn’t capitalize on it. With Sri Lanka setting a target of just 241 runs, the task should have been manageable, but Iyer’s failure was a key reason for Team India’s defeat.
KL Rahul
KL Rahul is being given a chance as a wicketkeeper-batsman in the ODI series against Sri Lanka, but he hasn’t met the expectations of the team management. He scored 31 runs in the first ODI, but failed to score any runs in the second match. Rahul is not fulfilling the hope placed in him by being given a spot in the middle order.
Shivam Dube
Shivam Dube, included in Team India as an all-rounder, was also a factor in their defeat in the second ODI. Tasked with finishing matches, his performance in both the first and second ODIs was average. In the second ODI, Shivam failed to score any runs.
Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar had a great opportunity in the second ODI to help the Indian team recover and secure a victory. He spent a good amount of time at the crease, but after settling in, he lost his wicket hastily. This led to India’s defeat. In this match, Sundar scored 15 runs off 40 balls.