India dominates Sri Lanka with 43-run win in T20I series opener

India secured a commanding 43-run victory against Sri Lanka in the first match of the T20I series held at Pallekele Stadium.

After being asked to bat, India posted a formidable 213/7, thanks to a blistering half-century by new skipper Suryakumar Yadav. Yadav's 58 off 26 balls, including two sixes and eight fours, anchored India's innings. He forged a crucial 76-run partnership with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who contributed a solid 49.

Despite fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana's impressive four-wicket haul, Sri Lanka's fielding lapses allowed India to surpass the 200-run mark. Pathirana, known for his slinging action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga, dismissed key batsmen including Yadav and Pant.

Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill gave India an explosive start, adding 74 runs in the first six overs. Jaiswal scored 40 off 21 balls, while Gill contributed 34 before both fell in quick succession to Dilshan Madushanka and Wanindu Hasaranga, respectively.

Yadav then stabilized the innings and launched a counterattack, supported by Pant. Pathirana later trapped Yadav lbw and bowled both Pant and Hardik Pandya, but India's total proved to be a daunting target.

In their chase, Sri Lanka made a strong start with Pathum Nissanka leading the charge. Kusal Mendis hit a rapid 27-ball 45 before being dismissed by Arshdeep Singh. Nissanka's 48-ball 79, featuring four sixes and seven fours, kept Sri Lanka in contention, but their innings collapsed dramatically, losing seven wickets for just 12 runs.

Riyan Parag shone with the ball, claiming three wickets for five runs, while Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel took two wickets each, sealing the victory for India.