To revenge India should win the 3rd ODI over Sri Lanka in Colombo

Indian batters, especially the influential Virat Kohli, will face significant pressure to emulate the performance set by skipper Rohit Sharma and effectively tackle the spin challenge in the third and final ODI in Colombo on Wednesday. This match is crucial to avoid India's first series defeat to Sri Lanka in 27 years. Gautam Gambhir, known for his focus on victories, would certainly prefer a different start to his tenure as head coach. India's last bilateral ODI series loss to Sri Lanka occurred in 1997, when the Arjuna Ranatunga-led team completed a 3-0 sweep against Sachin Tendulkar’s side.

Since then, India and Sri Lanka have contested 11 bilateral ODI series, with India winning all of them. However, India cannot win the current three-match series after losing by 32 runs in the second ODI and drawing the first game.

The batting unit has struggled, plagued by indecisiveness on a pitch that has favoured spinners. This issue is epitomised by Virat Kohli, who has managed just 38 runs across two matches. More concerning than the runs he has scored is the nature of his dismissals.

Kohli has appeared subdued, failing to capitalise on the strong starts provided by Rohit Sharma. He struggled against the spin of Wanindu Hasaranga and Jeffrey Vandersay, appearing far removed from the dominant player who scored four centuries at this very venue. Kohli must regain his form and find a way to overcome the current challenges.

A fluent Kohli is essential for India’s success, whether chasing or setting a target. However, his difficulties reflect broader issues within the Indian batting lineup. Shivam Dube, known for his ability against spin, failed to handle a basic leg-break from Vandersay and was dismissed lbw. Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, who have excelled against spinners in the past, have struggled with their footwork and strokeplay against Sri Lankan slow bowlers.

To address these issues, Indian batters should look to Rohit Sharma’s approach—not just his technique but also his confidence and strategic planning. Rohit’s recent innings, including a 44-ball 64, demonstrated exceptional skill, with well-calculated shots that rarely looked risky.

In terms of team composition, the management might consider replacing Dube with Riyan Parag. Parag’s off-spin or leg-spin could be more effective than Dube’s medium pace, and Parag is also a strong hitter.

Additionally, Indian bowlers need to improve their finishing skills. They failed to close out games effectively after reducing Sri Lanka to 142 for six and 136 for six in the previous matches.