India defeated Sri Lanka in a thrilling super over, but the result could have been very different if not for a crucial mistake on the last ball. Sri Lanka was in a strong position to win the match comfortably, thanks to some fine batting from Nissanka and Kusal Perera. However, one moment of misjudgment turned the game completely, leaving Sri Lanka disappointed and their coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, visibly frustrated.
Sri Lanka needed 12 runs in the final over of their chase. Shanaka, leading the charge, played a few impressive shots against Harshit Rana to bring the equation down. With two balls remaining, Sri Lanka required 7 runs to win. Facing Harshit Rana, Shanaka lofted the ball over the infield for a boundary, reducing the target to just 3 runs from the last delivery.
The pressure was immense as Shanaka faced the final ball. Harshit Rana bowled a short-pitched delivery, and Shanaka swung hard but did not connect cleanly. Even so, the ball rolled into a vacant area, allowing the batters to run comfortably for two. Axar Patel, fielding near the boundary, misfielded, which allowed a third run. Unfortunately, Shanaka did not notice Axar’s mistake. Instead of capitalizing, he went for a dive to complete the second run safely, missing out on the winning chance.
This moment proved to be the turning point, as Sri Lanka could only tie the match, leading it into a super over. India eventually held their nerves and sealed victory in the decider. Sanath Jayasuriya, part of the Sri Lankan coaching setup, was seen visibly upset after the game, believing Sri Lanka had thrown away a winning opportunity.
