• Dunith Wellalage picked up a five-wicket haul in the third and final ODI against India.

  • Wellalage's guided Sri Lanka to a comprehensive series win over the 2023 World Cup finalists.

WATCH: Dunith Wellalage’s record feat against India | SL vs IND 2024, 3rd ODI
Dunith Wellalage's five-wicket haul against India (PC: X)

Dunith Wellalage delivered a sensational performance in the third ODI against India, claiming a remarkable five-wicket haul that played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s historic 110-run victory. This win not only secured the series for Sri Lanka but also marked their first bilateral ODI series win over India since 1997.

Sri Lanka thrash India in the third and final ODI

In the match held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka set a challenging target of 249 runs after posting 248 for 7 in their innings. Avishka Fernando was the standout performer with the bat, scoring a well-made 96 runs. However, it was Wellalage’s bowling that stole the spotlight, as he dismantled the Indian batting lineup with figures of 5 for 27 in just 5.1 overs.

India’s chase began on a promising note with Rohit Sharma scoring a brisk 35 off 20 balls. However, the innings quickly spiraled out of control after his dismissal. Wellalage’s spell was instrumental in breaking the backbone of the Indian batting order, with the team collapsing for just 138 runs in 26.1 overs.

Also WATCH: Shubman Gill’s controversial catch to dismissal Kusal Mendis in SL vs IND 3rd ODI

Wellalage’s historic achievement

Wellalage’s five-wicket haul not only secured him the ‘Player of the Match’ award but also etched his name in the record books. He became the first player to achieve a five-wicket haul against India in ODIs on two separate occasions, showcasing his growing prowess as a key player for Sri Lanka. His performance was particularly impressive given the pressure of the match and the significance of the series.

Here’s the video:

After the match, Wellalage expressed his elation, stating, “I want to thank my skipper [Charith Asalanka], team mates and coaching staff. Everyone gave me great support and that’s why I am here.

“We adjusted to the wicket as it was turning. It was same like the first two ODIs and committed less mistakes today. The batters did a good job and then the spinners bowled well. Everyone is supporting each other and I am excited to be part of the team,” he added.

Wellalage’s outstanding five-wicket haul against India has not only secured a historic series win for Sri Lanka but has also highlighted the potential of the younger generation of cricketers in the country. As Sri Lanka celebrates this achievement, Wellalage’s performance will be remembered as a key moment in the series, setting the stage for future successes in Sri Lankan cricket.

Also READ: Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene reacts to Sri Lanka’s historic ODI series win over India

Subscribe to Cricket Times on YouTube to watch Exclusive Interviews, Podcasts, Weekly News Updates & Explainers.

TAGS:

CATEGORY: Dunith Wellalage Featured ODI Video

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
Anirudh is the Head of Content at CricketTimes.com. He is a seasoned journalist and content writer with 12 years of experience in the field of cricket. With over 9,000 published articles under his belt, Anirudh brings a creative and strategic approach to his work, always striving to deliver content that resonates with audiences. A die-hard sports fan who loves playing, watching and talking about cricket. Cricket is his Religion & 'Sachin Tendulkar' his GOD. His motto of life is Eat, Sleep, Cricket, REPEAT!! You can write to him at anirudh@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.