“Former India star criticizes Arshdeep Singh for lacking game awareness and failing to impress.”

The first ODI between India and Sri Lanka concluded in a tie, with Arshdeep Singh’s ill-fated slogsweep playing a key role in the result. Arshdeep, the last Indian batsman, was dismissed after attempting an extravagant shot when the team needed just one run to win off 14 balls. His dismissal came on the very first ball he faced, where he was LBW to Charith Asalanka’s delivery after missing the ball entirely. This critical moment drew sharp criticism from former Indian cricketer Dodda Ganesh, who lambasted Arshdeep for his lack of game awareness during the tense final stages of the match.

The match was held on Friday in Colombo and was part of the three-match series. Sri Lanka, after opting to bat, posted a competitive total of 230 for 8. Their innings was bolstered by solid contributions from Dunith Wellalage and Pathum Nissanka. Wellalage scored a crucial 67 not out off 65 balls, featuring seven boundaries and two sixes, while Nissanka added 56 off 75 balls. The conditions favored slow bowlers, making the total more challenging to chase.

In response, India’s chase was anchored by captain Rohit Sharma, who made 58 off 47 balls. Contributions from Axar Patel (33) and KL Rahul (31) kept India in contention, but they fell short of securing victory. The Indian bowlers did their part, with left-arm orthodox spinner Axar Patel and wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav both delivering economical spells, taking 2/33 and 1/33 respectively. Additionally, seamers Shivam Dube, Arshdeep Singh, and Mohammed Siraj each claimed a wicket.

For Sri Lanka, the standout bowlers were Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga. Asalanka’s 3/30 was pivotal in the final overs, while Hasaranga’s 3/58 contributed significantly to the pressure on the Indian batsmen.

The match’s conclusion in a tie was a dramatic end to an intense game, with Arshdeep Singh’s dismissal as the last wicket being a focal point of scrutiny and criticism. Ganesh’s comments highlight the critical nature of game awareness in high-pressure situations, emphasizing the need for players to make strategic decisions, especially when the game is on the line.