5 stand out performers of the India vs Sri Lanka ODI series

3. Upul Tharanga

Upul Tharanga [file photo]

The most experienced Sri Lankan batsman in the current squad, Tharanga was consistent throughout the series. With his aggressive batting, in three matches, he scored 151 runs at an average of 50.33, and was the second best batsman for Sri Lanka after Angelo Mathews, in terms of number of runs scored.

In the Dharamsala ODI, while chasing a low total of 113 runs, Sri Lanka lost Danushka Gunathilaka in the 4th over of the innings. But this did not affect Tharanga’s aggressive approach towards the chase, and he scored 49 runs in 46 balls at a strike rate of 106.52 including 10 fours in it. He scored only 7 runs in the second ODI at Mohali, but came back strong in the decider played at Vizag. Tharanga, with 12 fours and 3 sixes, scored 95 runs at a strike rate of 115.85, before he was stumped out by M.S.Dhoni off the bowling of Kuldeep Yadav.

Although Tharanga’s consistent performances in the series were not enough to get the Lankans over the line, his presence in the team has brought strength to the SL batting line-up.