Rohit Sharma becomes third Indian captain to lose ODI bilateral series against Sri Lanka

Rohit Sharma's Indian team suffered a humiliating defeat against Sri Lanka in the third and final ODI and lost the series 0-2. With this loss, Sharma has joined the elite company of legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Mohammad Azharuddin, becoming only the third Indian captain to lose an ODI bilateral series against the island nation.

India's 110-run defeat in the third ODI at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on August 7, 2024, marked the end of a 27-year-old streak where they had never lost a bilateral ODI series against the neighboring nation.

The last time India lost an ODI series against the Lankan Lions was in 1997, under Tendulkar's captaincy. Former India skipper Azharuddin was the first one to lose a series to Sri Lanka in 1993.

Also read: Rohit Sharma rubbishes 'complacency' claim after Sri Lanka drubbing

Sri Lanka, led by Charith Asalanka, posted a total of 248 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs. Avishka Fernando (96), Kusal Mendis (59), and Pathum Nissanka (45) were the standout performers with the bat for the hosts.

In response, India's batting lineup crumbled, and they were bowled out for a mere 138 runs in just 26.1 overs. Sharma's 35-run knock and Washington Sundar's 30-run innings were the only positives for the visitors. The rest of the batters failed to make a significant contribution, with no one else crossing the 20-run mark.

Also read: Rohit Sharma analyses India's series loss to Sri Lanka

Dunith Wellalage, was the star of the show for Sri Lanka, picking up a five-wicket haul. This was his second five-wicket haul against India, having previously achieved the feat in the Asia Cup 2023 match between the two teams. The Men in Blue will have a month-long break before taking on Bangladesh in a two-match Test series.