India’s newly appointed skipper, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shubman Gill put on a dominant display in the first innings of the match against Sri Lanka, amassing a formidable 74 runs without losing a wicket in the Powerplay.
Yadav, who came to the crease after the dismissal of Yashasvi Jaiswal, welcomed Kamindu Mendis with a boundary over cover. Mendis, an ambidextrous spinner, bowled a variety of deliveries, including off-spin and left-arm spin, but Yadav and Gill remained unfazed.
Gill, in particular, was in fine form, hitting a six over mid-wicket off Dilshan Madushanka and four boundaries in quick succession. His shots were a combination of power and precision, showcasing his excellent timing and strokeplay.
Madushanka, who had conceded 13 runs in his first over, returned to the attack and dismissed Gill for 33. Gill attempted a big shot but mistimed it, giving Asitha Fernando an easy catch at mid-on.
Despite the loss of Gill, Yadav continued to play aggressively, hitting a boundary off Wanindu Hasaranga. Hasaranga, who had earlier dismissed Jaiswal, bowled a googly that beat Yadav all ends up.
At the end of the Powerplay, India were in a commanding position, with Yadav and Jaiswal unbeaten on 28 and 25 respectively. The duo had built a solid foundation for India’s innings, putting pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers.
