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Tag: R Premadasa Stadium

  • SL vs AUS [WATCH]: Steve Smith’s lightning reflexes send Avishka Fernando packing in the 1st ODI

    SL vs AUS [WATCH]: Steve Smith’s lightning reflexes send Avishka Fernando packing in the 1st ODI

    Steve Smith once again showcased his exceptional slip-catching skills with a sharp grab to dismiss Avishka Fernando during the 1st ODI between Australia and Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium.

    Steve Smith’s sharp reflexes result in Avishka Fernando’s dismissal

    Aaron Hardie struck early in his first over, dismissing Fernando for just one with a well-directed back-of-a-length delivery that extracted movement off the surface. The ball pitched around off stump and shaped away late, forcing Fernando into an indecisive push without any significant foot movement. Caught in two minds, he extended his hands away from his body, trying to feel for the ball rather than playing it with conviction. The late movement found the thick outside edge of his bat, and the ball flew quickly towards the slip cordon at a difficult height.

    Smith, stationed at second slip, reacted instinctively as the ball traveled fast to his left. Instead of going hard at it, he stayed low and allowed the ball to come to him, ensuring he had control while taking the catch. His soft hands absorbed the impact, preventing the ball from popping out upon contact. The sharp reflex grab highlighted Smith’s incredible anticipation and safe hands, reinforcing his reputation as one of the best slip fielders in world cricket.

    Fernando, having failed to cover the movement, could only watch in disappointment as Smith completed the dismissal with ease. The wicket left Sri Lanka struggling at 6/2, giving Australia the early advantage. Hardie’s disciplined line and ability to extract movement proved crucial, while Smith’s quick reactions ensured the opportunity was not wasted.

    Here’s the video:

    Also READ: SL vs AUS, 1st ODI: Here’s why Mitchell Starc is not playing today’s match

    Sri Lanka struggles as Australia dominate powerplay in 1st ODI

    Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first backfired as Australia’s disciplined bowling attack made early inroads, leaving the hosts reeling at 39/4 at the end of the first powerplay. Spencer Johnson set the tone with a sharp delivery that saw Pathum Nissanka edge behind in the very first over. Hardie then capitalized on the early movement, dismissing Fernando cheaply as Smith took a sharp catch at slip.

    Kusal Mendis looked promising, striking four boundaries, but Hardie’s consistent line forced an error, and he was caught by Matthew Short. Kamindu Mendis followed soon after, falling to Jake Fraser-McGurk’s catch off Johnson’s bowling. With Charith Asalanka and Janith Liyanage left to rebuild, Sri Lanka ended the powerplay in deep trouble at 39/4, struggling against Australia’s relentless attack.

    Also READ: SL vs AUS 2025, ODI Series – Broadcast, Live Streaming details | When and where to watch in India, Australia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan & other countries



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  • Fans react as the 1st ODI between Sri Lanka and India ends in a dramatic tie in Colombo

    Fans react as the 1st ODI between Sri Lanka and India ends in a dramatic tie in Colombo

    India and Sri Lanka played out a thrilling tie in the 1st ODI of their three-match series on Friday (August 2), at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. After opting to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a total of 230/8 in their allotted 50 overs, with Dunith Wellalage top-scoring with an unbeaten 67 off 65 balls. In response, India were all out for 230 in 47.5 overs, resulting in a dramatic finish.

    India’s batting performance and thrilling tie

    India began their chase with a strong start as captain Rohit Sharma played a blistering innings of 58 from 47 balls, including seven fours and three sixes. However, Shubman Gill struggled and was dismissed for 16 off 35 balls by Wellalage, with Kusal Mendis taking a catch off a top edge. Rohit was also dismissed by Wellalage, who trapped him in front of the stumps. Washington Sundar, promoted to number four, could not make an impact and was dismissed for 5 off 4 balls by Akila Dananjaya, leaving India at 87/3 after 15.4 overs.

    A 43-run partnership between Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer briefly steadied the innings, but the game took a turn when both Kohli (24 off 32) and Iyer (23 off 23) were dismissed, leaving India at 132/5 after 24.2 overs. With the match finely poised, KL Rahul and Axar Patel added a crucial 57-run stand for the sixth wicket off 94 balls. Nevertheless, another twist took place as both Rahul (31 off 43) and Patel (33 off 57) were dismissed in quick succession, leaving India in a precarious position. Shivam Dube played a crucial innings of 25 runs, helping India level the score with the hosts. Nonetheless, after Dube’s dismissal, Arshdeep Singh was out on the very first ball he faced, resulting in the match ending in a tie.

    Also WATCH: Asitha Fernando delivers an absolute peach to send Shreyas Iyer packing | SL vs IND, 1st ODI

    Sri Lanka’s batting led by Dinuth Wellalage

    Earlier, Sri Lanka’s innings began poorly with Mohammed Siraj (1/36 in 8 overs) dismissing Avishka Fernando early. Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka attempted to rebuild, but their partnership was short-lived as Dube (1/19 in 4 overs) dismissed Mendis lbw in the 14th over. This wicket led to a collapse, with Sri Lanka’s middle order struggling against India’s spin trio.

    Patel (2/33), Kuldeep Yadav (1/33) and Washington Sundar (1/46 in 9 overs) dismissed Sadeera Samarawickrama (8 off 18), Charith Asalanka (14 off 21) and Pathum Nissanka (56 off 75), respectively. Sri Lanka were in dire straits at 101/5. Wellalage anchored the innings, forming vital partnerships with Janith Liyanage (20 off 26), Wanindu Hasaranga (24 off 35) and Akila Dananjaya (17 off 21). Wellalage’s unbeaten 67, including seven fours and two sixes, was instrumental in lifting Sri Lanka to a competitive total of 230/8. His remarkable innings marked his first ODI half-century and provided the backbone for Sri Lanka’s total.

    Here’s how fans reacted:

    Also WATCH: SL vs IND : KL Rahul hilariously asks about the IPL rule query to Rohit Sharma during first ODI



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  • WATCH: Asitha Fernando delivers an absolute peach to send Shreyas Iyer packing | SL vs IND, 1st ODI

    WATCH: Asitha Fernando delivers an absolute peach to send Shreyas Iyer packing | SL vs IND, 1st ODI

    In the 1st ODI between Sri Lanka and India at the R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Shreyas Iyer encountered an exceptional delivery from Asitha Fernando that became a turning point in the match. This dismissal, taking place at a pivotal stage of India’s chase of Sri Lanka’s target of 231, significantly heightened the pressure on the Indian batting lineup.

    Shreyas Iyer’s dismissal by Asitha Fernando in the 1st ODI at Colombo

    In the 24th over of the Indian innings, Fernando, renowned for his ability to generate bounce and seam movement, bowled a superb delivery that nipped back sharply off the seam. Positioned deep inside his crease, Iyer attempted to play across the line but was completely beaten by the sudden movement. The ball crashed into his stumps, leaving Iyer out at a critical juncture. This dismissal not only disrupted a promising partnership but also added immense pressure on the remaining Indian batters, making the task of chasing the target even more challenging.

    Here’s the video:

    Also WATCH: SL vs IND : KL Rahul hilariously asks about the IPL rule query to Rohit Sharma during first ODI

    India’s struggle after a great start

    India’s innings started on a high note with captain Rohit Sharma playing an aggressive knock. He scored a brisk 58 off 47 balls, including seven boundaries and three sixes, setting a solid foundation for the chase. Shubman Gill, opening alongside Sharma, contributed 16 runs off 35 balls before falling to Dunith Wellalage. The early dismissals of Sharma and Gill slowed down the momentum, but Virat Kohli and Iyer tried to stabilize the innings. But Kohli’s innings was cut short at 24, leaving India at 130/4.

    Shreyas Iyer’s dismissal at 132/5 further dented India’s chase, and they found themselves struggling to keep up with the required run rate. The middle order, including KL Rahul and Axar Patel, faced the challenge of rebuilding the innings under increasing pressure. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, particularly Dunith Wellalage and Wanindu Hasaranga, maintained tight lines and lengths, making scoring difficult.

    Sri Lanka’s fight back after early collapse

    Earlier, Sri Lanka’s innings saw a steady but cautious approach, culminating in a total of 230/8 in their allotted 50 overs. Pathum Nissanka played a pivotal role at the top of the order, scoring a patient 56 off 75 balls, laced with nine boundaries. Despite losing his opening partner Avishka Fernando early, Nissanka anchored the innings. Contributions from Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka kept the scoreboard ticking, but regular wickets prevented Sri Lanka from gaining momentum.

    The middle-order saw Janith Liyanage and Wellalage making valuable contributions. Wellalage’s unbeaten 67 off 65 balls, with seven fours and two sixes, was instrumental in pushing Sri Lanka to a competitive total. India’s bowlers, particularly Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, kept the scoring rate in check with economical spells. Patel’s 2/33 and Yadav’s 1/33 were highlights of the bowling performance, supported by wickets from Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar.

    Also WATCH: Shivam Dube claims maiden ODI wicket by dismissing Kusal Mendis | SL vs IND 2024, 1st ODI



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  • SL vs ZIM, 3rd ODI: R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report, Colombo Weather Forecast, ODI Stats & Records | Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2024

    SL vs ZIM, 3rd ODI: R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report, Colombo Weather Forecast, ODI Stats & Records | Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2024

    Sri Lanka will battle against Zimbabwe in the third and last ODI of Zimbabwe’s ongoing tour of Sri Lanka. The crucial clash will take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

    While the first ODI got washed off due to rain and Sri Lanka won the second game by two wickets, the visitors will aim to end the contest on level terms. At the same time, the hosts will be eager to win the duel and seal the series.

    ODI Stats and Records at R. Premadasa Stadium

    • Total matches: 163
    • Matches won batting first: 88
    • Matches won bowling first: 64
    • Average first innings scores: 232
    • Average second innings scores: 190
    • Highest total recorded: 375/5 (50 Ov) by India vs Sri Lanka
    • Lowest total recorded: 50/10 (15.2 Ov) by Sri Lanka vs India
    • Highest score chased: 292/4 (48.3 Ov) by Sri Lanka vs Australia
    • Lowest score defended: 170/10 (49.2 Ov) by West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women

    R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report

    The R. Premadasa Stadium pitch is renowned for its inclination towards favouring spin bowlers, although it also offers advantages to batters due to its fast outfield and relatively shorter boundaries. Chasing a target on this pitch could present difficulties. However, considering the current weather conditions, the captain winning the toss might choose to bowl first.

    Also READ: Ex-captain Asghar Afghan makes a bold claim about Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign

    Colombo Weather Forecast:

    Colombo Weather Forecast, SL vs ZIM (Image CC- Twitter)

    The weather forecast for the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe match in Colombo indicates a high likelihood of rain, with a 75% chance. The humidity is expected to be around 79%, and the wind speed is forecasted to be 13 kilometres per hour. These conditions suggest that rain interruptions could impact the course of the game.

    SL vs ZIM, Probable Playing XI

    Sri Lanka: Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dilshan Madushanka

    Zimbabwe: Joylord Gumbie (wk), Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Craig Ervine (c), Sikandar Raza, Clive Madande, Luke Jongwe, Faraz Akram, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava.

    Also READ – IND vs AFG 2024, 1st T20I: Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium Pitch Report, Mohali Weather Forecast, T20I Stats & Records | India vs Afghanistan

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  • Asia Cup 2023 Super 4s, IND vs BAN: R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report, Colombo Weather Forecast, ODI Stats & Records

    Asia Cup 2023 Super 4s, IND vs BAN: R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report, Colombo Weather Forecast, ODI Stats & Records

    India and Bangladesh are all set to take on each other in the sixth fixture of the Super Four stage in the Asia Cup 2023 on Friday (September 15). The contest will take place at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium and will mark the first instance when the two teams will meet each other in the ongoing continental tournament.

    As far as the previous fixtures of both teams are concerned, India defeated Sri Lanka in their last match, while Bangladesh suffered a defeat at the hands of the same opponent. Kuldeep Yadav shined for India in their victory, bagging a brilliant four-fer for his team. On the other hand, despite Towhid Hridoy’s resilient 82-run knock, Bangladesh lost their second Super Fours fixture to Sri Lanka.

    India have already secured a spot in the final with back-to-back wins and would look to maintain their dominance. Meanwhile, Bangladesh are already out of the summit clash race and will search for a morale-boosting win.

    ODI stats and records at R. Premadasa Stadium:

    • Total matches: 158
    • Matches won batting first: 87
    • Matches won bowling first: 61
    • Average first Innings scores: 233
    • Average second innings scores: 191
    • Highest total recorded: 375/5 (50 Overs) by India vs Sri Lanka
    • Lowest total recorded: 78/10 (33.1 Overs) by Sri Lanka Women vs England Women
    • Highest score chased: 292/4 (48.3 Overs) by Sri Lanka vs Australia
    • Lowest score defended: 170/10 (49.2 Overs) by West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women

    Also WATCH: Pramod Madushan bamboozles Fakhar Zaman with a brilliant inswinging yorker during PAK vs SL – Asia Cup 2023

    R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report

    R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch (Inage Source: Twitter)

    The track at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo has gained a reputation for favouring spinners. The pitch at this particular venue provides ideal spin conditions with ample turn and bounce. Simultaneously, the surface also offers some advantages to batters, thanks to its rapid outfield and relatively shorter boundaries. Nevertheless, pursuing a target on this pitch can prove to be a formidable task due to its consistent support for spin bowlers. Consequently, it is highly probable that the team captain who wins the toss will choose to bat first and set a target to defend.

    Colombo Weather Forecast

    Colombo Weather Forecast - IND vs BAN
    Colombo Weather Forecast – IND vs BAN (Image Source: Twitter)

    The weather at R. Premadasa Stadium will be partly cloudy, with a moderate chance of showers. The rain gods are likely to interrupt the game with a 12% chance of precipitation. However, cricket enthusiasts can expect the match to take place despite a few interruptions. The temperature is expected to hover around 29 degrees Celsius with humidity levels to be around 76% and the wind blowing at a speed of 18 Km/hr.

    IND vs BAN, Probable Playing XIs

    India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj

    Bangladesh: Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das (wk), Shakib Al Hasan (c), Towhid Hridoy, Afif Hossain, Shamim Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud

    Also WATCH: Mayank Agarwal aces the yo-yo test with a stellar 21.1 score, James Neesham takes a hilarious dig

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  • Cricket fraternity erupts after Virat Kohli and KL Rahul light up R. Premadasa Stadium with brilliant centuries – PAK vs IND, Asia Cup 2023

    Cricket fraternity erupts after Virat Kohli and KL Rahul light up R. Premadasa Stadium with brilliant centuries – PAK vs IND, Asia Cup 2023

    The India-Pakistan clash in Super Fours of Asia Cup 2023 that cricket fans around the world had eagerly awaited finally resumed on the reserve day after the originally scheduled fixture was washed out due to rain and witnessed a spectacle that will be etched in memory for years to come.

    Resuming their innings on 147//2, India lost no wicket further and posted a mammoth total of 356 in their allotted 50 overs. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul were the standout performers for the Men in Blue and hammered brilliant tons for their side. The duo smashed Pakistan’s pace battery all over the park and left the cricketing world in awe of their innings.

    Virat Kohli’s magnificent 122 (94)

    Kohli emerged as the true talisman for his team at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The former India skipper exhibited a masterclass in batting, hammering a sensational century. Kohli’s 122 came off just 94 balls and included nine boundaries and three sixes. It was a performance that once again emphasized his status as one of the greatest ODI batters of all time.

    Moreover, Kohli’s innings had a historic dimension as well. In the process of scoring his 122, he crossed the monumental milestone of 13,000 ODI runs and became the fastest to reach this landmark in terms of innings played.

    Fewest innings to 13,000 ODI runs

    267 – Virat Kohli*
    321 – Sachin Tendulkar
    341 – Ricky Ponting
    363 – Kumar Sangakkara
    416 – Sanath Jayasuriya

    Also READ: AB de Villiers’ guru mantra – How to thrive against Pakistan speedster Shaheen Afridi?

    KL Rahul’s remarkable comeback century

    If Kohli’s century was a testament to his class and consistency, KL Rahul’s century was a story of resilience and determination. Rahul had faced a recent setback with a niggle after recovering from his thigh injury, which forced him to miss the group stage matches of the Asia Cup 2023. However, his return to the team was nothing short of a fairy tale comeback.

    Rahul’s 111 runs came off 106 balls and featured 12 fours and two sixes. His partnership with Kohli was the cornerstone of India’s innings, and the duo’s chemistry on the pitch left fans in raptures. Rahul’s innings was not just about runs; it was about character, grit, and a determination to make a strong comeback.

    Historic partnership and records tumble

    The partnership between Kohli and Rahul, which produced 233 runs, became the highest partnership in the history of the Asia Cup. Their sublime batting display overshadowed the previous record held by Mohammad Hafeez and Nasir Jamshed, who had put together 224 runs against India back in 2012.

    Highest Partnership in ODI Asia Cup

    233 – Virat Kohli and KL Rahul vs PAK, 2023*
    224 – Mohammad Hafeez and Nasir Jamshed vs IND, 2012
    223 – Shoaib Malik and Younis Khan vs HK, 2004
    214 – Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed vs NEP, 2023

    Also READ: Mushfiqur Rahim and his wife Jannatul Kifayet Mondi blessed with a baby girl

    The cricketing world couldn’t help but marvel at the batting prowess displayed by the Indian duo. Fans and people from the cricket fraternity showered accolades on Kohli and Rahul for their brilliant innings, which had set a new benchmark in the annals of the Asia Cup history and flooded social media with appreciation posts.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:



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