Sri Lanka registered a comprehensive seven-wicket win against India in the third T20 international at Colombo on Thursday. Sri Lankan spinners, led by leggie Wanindu Hasaranga, demolished a depleted Indian lineup. Sri Lanka won the three-match series 2-1.

Batting first, India were restricted to their third-lowest T20I total of 81 for 8 with Hasaranga getting 4 for 9 in four overs. The match was reduced to a no-contest after India’s disappointing batting display as off-spinner Akila Danajaya too troubled the batsmen though he did not take any wicket.

India were playing with six bowlers after nine players were ruled out of selection. After Krunal Pandya tested positive for COVID-19, eight other Indian players who had come in close contact with him were made unavailable for selection.

“It was a difficult situation for us but as a team, we decided we will stay and play the series,” Dhawan said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

In reply, Sri Lanka reached the target in 14.3 overs with Dhananjaya De Silva (23) scoring bulk of the runs. Wrist spinner Rahul Chahar finished with three for 15 off his four overs.

The small target gave the hosts the luxury to adopt a cautious approach. They too struggled against the Indian spinners before overhauling the target with 5.3 overs to spare. It is Sri Lanka’s first ever T20 series win over India.

Throughout his innings, de Silva nudged the ball in gaps for singles and doubles. He ensure that there were no hiccups in the chase and took his side past the finish line.

De Silva showed when scoring boundaries is not possible, working the ball around is the best way, something the Indian batsmen failed to do. After shining with ball in his hand, Hasaranga also scored 14 runs.

India had won the preceding ODI series 2-1.

Brief Scores: India 81/8 in 20 overs (Wanindu Hasaranga 4/9). Sri Lanka 82 for 3 in 14.3 overs (Dhananjaya de Silva 23 batting, Rahul Chahar 3/15).