Indian batters choke as SL earn a tie in ODI series opener

The first ODI between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo ended in a dramatic tie, revealing India’s weakness against spin despite Rohit Sharma’s aggressive 58 off 47 balls. His dismissal exposed the Indian middle order’s struggles as Sri Lankan spinners, led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka, took crucial wickets. Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka and Dunith Wellalage scored vital half-centuries, guiding their team to a competitive total. Despite India’s late push by Shivam Dube, their reliance on Rohit and spin vulnerabilities were starkly highlighted.