In a tense third T20I, Sri Lanka needed just nine runs to win from the last two overs against India. With Mohammed Siraj and Khaleel Ahmed available to bowl, captain Suryakumar Yadav took a surprising risk by turning to the off-spin of Rinku Singh, who had never bowled in a T20 international before. The gamble paid off spectacularly, as Rinku dismissed Kusal Perera, who top-edged a shot that Rinku himself caught, and later removed Ramesh Mendis with a catch at deep midwicket, conceding only three runs in the over.
Inspired by Rinku's performance, Suryakumar decided to bowl the final over himself, despite it being his first time bowling in T20Is. He took two more wickets, giving away only five runs, and sealed the victory for India. Washington Sundar, a regular off-spinner for the team, praised Suryakumar's captaincy as "amazing," noting how the decision to use spinners on a turning pitch was crucial to their success.
Washington also played a crucial role in the Super Over, conceding just two runs and taking two wickets, having already claimed 2 for 23 in regular play. He shared that he was unexpectedly asked to bowl by Suryakumar, who maintained belief in their ability to win despite being in a tough position.
Despite India seemingly being on the brink of losing while defending a modest total of 137, Suryakumar remained optimistic, instructing his team that a couple of wickets could turn the game around. Washington highlighted that on a challenging wicket, even a run-a-ball target can put pressure on batsmen, and this pressure led to a dramatic collapse for Sri Lanka, who needed 28 runs from 28 balls with nine wickets remaining. Washington expressed his pride in being part of such an exciting and rare match.