Guided by Ishan Kishan‘s fiery fifty and Prithvi Shaw’s quickfire 43, India outclassed the Sri Lankan cricket team by seven wickets in the first One-Day International (ODI) to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.

Sri Lanka, after winning the toss, posted a competitive total of 262/9 in 50 overs after the Indian bowlers kept picking wickets at regular intervals and not allowing the hosts to gain momentum.

In reply, India overhauled the target in 36.4 overs to record a comprehensive win. Talking about the performance and win, the Indian captain Shikhar Dhawan said that he was happy with the player played and was great fun to watch the batsmen from the other end.

“All our boys, most of them have played earlier. They’re very matured. Very happy with the way they played. Knew that wicket has a bit of turn but the way our spinners bowled from 10th over, they got us back straightaway,” Dhawan said.

“When we batted, it was great to watch from the other end. Great strength to have them. The way the young boys play IPL, get so much exposure, their confidence level is very high. The way Prithvi and Ishan batted, they finished the game in first 15 overs,” Dhawan added in the post-match presentation.

“…So the focus was on being not out. Even when Surya came in and batted, it looked so easy. I was like maybe I have to improve my skill,” the left-handed batsmen said.

“Started well but they varied the pace well. Our batsmen couldn’t get the rhythm going. Way Indian players played, they’re very aggressive. We all know how good they are but our bowlers need to improve. Have to execute our plans well,” Dasun Shanaka, the Sri Lankan captain said.

Prithvi Shaw was adjudged the man of the match for his 24-ball 43, in which he hit nine boundaries.

“It’s fine now (about the blow to the helmet). Rahul sir didn’t say anything, I just went with my instinct and waited for the loose balls. Obviously wanted to keep scoreboard ticking and yeah. Pitch was very nice. First innings also was good but I think it got better in the second innings. Enjoy pace. Maybe after being hit on the head I lost a bit of focus,” the Indian opener said.

The second ODI between India and Sri Lanka will be played on July 20.