India survives Dilshan blitz to win thriller

Rajkot: India posted their highest-ever ODI total of 414 but a rampaging Sri Lanka very nearly pulled off a sensational victory before losing their way in the fag end to give the hosts a narrow three-run victory in a high-scoring thriller here on Tuesday.

After the Indians rattled up 414 of 7 built around Virender Sehwag’s 146, Tillkaratne Dilshan (160) and Kumar Sangakkara (90 off 43 balls) launched a ruthless assault but the Indian bowlers held their nerve to eventually scamper home and give the home team a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

The Madhav Rao Scindia stadium turned out to be a batting paradise with over 825 runs being scored and India would consider themselves a trifle lucky to escape with a win despite the sloppy fielding and the erratic bowling.

Text: PTI

Images: Reuters

Coverage: India v Sri Lanka | Scorecard