India, led by the ever-stout Dhoni, pulled up a sensational win after fending off a spirited challenge from tiny island nation Sri Lanka to go 2-0 up in series at Colombo on 31st Jan’09. In fact at the end of 47th over, Sri Lanka were 232 for 7 requiring 25 runs in 3 overs to win, which by no means was hard task, particularly with T.Kandamby batting at 90.
But it was a case of failed nerves on the part of host’s players at the fag end as three of the Sri Lankal batsmen were run out in succession scoring a paltry 13 runs to end the tirade at 241, giving India a hard faught and well deserved win.
Batting first on a slow track at Premdasa Stadium India cobbled up a modest total of 256 for 9, Sehwag with 42 (run out) and Yuvraj with 66, being the main contributors. Sachin failed again scoring only 6, unable to fend off a quicker from Kulashekhara. Incidentally Sachin scored 5 only in the previous match.
Sri Lanka started on a disastrous note with three wickets falling with just 36 runs on board, both Sangkara and Jayasurya being dismissed cheaply. However the fourth wicket partnership of 100 runs between captain Mahela Jayawardene and Tilina Kandamby and another 51 runs fifth wicket partnership between Kandamby and Kapugedera (31) saw Sri Lanka reach within the striking distance to a glorious win.But three run out in the space of 16 balls and 13 runs saw India win the match. Kapugedera remained not out on 93.
The match was played at an average pace and was devoid of fire works on either side. However some exemplary fielding and a four wicket haul by the flame buoyant Ishant Sharma cruised India to win.