India secured a commanding 3-0 clean sweep in their T20I series against Sri Lanka, clinching victory in a thrilling Super Over finish in the final match held on Tuesday. Despite a strong position in their run chase, Sri Lanka faltered under the strategic brilliance of India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav.
Sri Lanka, initially at 110/1, succumbed to India’s disciplined bowling attack. Suryakumar’s unconventional decision to introduce Rinku Singh for the 19th over and then bowl the final over himself proved to be pivotal. Sri Lanka, who had been in a promising position, ended their innings at 137/8, with India managing to restrict them effectively.
Bhai Rohit Sharma ka chela hai Surya.. 19th over Rinku se, 20th over khud SKY and won the game. What else one needs to be a great leader?
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) July 30, 2024
In the Super Over, India outperformed Sri Lanka, sealing a comprehensive victory to cap off a perfect series. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif praised Suryakumar’s captaincy on social media, highlighting the strategic moves that led to the win. “Bhai Rohit Sharma ka chela hai Surya… 19th over Rinku se, 20th over khud SKY and won the game. What else one needs to be a great leader?” Kaif posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Rinku Singh, who was brought into bowl the 19th over, delivered an exceptional performance, taking two wickets and conceding just three runs. Suryakumar Yadav then took on the responsibility of the last over, claiming two more wickets and helping to push the match into a Super Over.
In a video shared by the BCCI, Rinku reflected on his unexpected bowling opportunity: “I had been told by Surya to be prepared for bowling in this series. Though I hadn’t bowled much recently, he asked me to practice and be ready. When he asked me to bowl, it was like a divine plan – I ended up taking two wickets.”
Washington Sundar, who contributed with both bat and ball, praised Suryakumar’s tactical acumen: “Bringing in Rinku for the 19th over was a brilliant decision by Surya. He’s shown his potential in practice, and his performance under pressure was outstanding. Surya’s decision to bowl the final over in such a crucial situation was remarkable.”
Suryakumar’s inventive captaincy and the exceptional performances by his teammates ensured India’s successful series sweep, leaving a lasting impression on fans and critics alike.