India knocked out by Chandimal century

HARARE: India were knocked out of the Tri-nations tournament when Dinesh Chandimal led Sri Lanka to a six-wicket victory with just 10 balls to spare.

India needed a win to stay in the tournament, after losses against Zimbabwe, which would have given them a chance to play in the final. The score of 268 for nine was not enough as Sri Lanka overhauled the target in the penultimate over. With this defeat India have dropped to third place behind Australia and South Africa in the ICC rankings.

Chandimal, named man of the match, punished the Indian bowlers with an impressive 111 off 118 balls. It was his maiden century in One-Day Internationals and he added 114 for the third wicket with Chamara Kapudegera, who offered the supporting role, scoring 42. Every Sri Lankan batsmen reached double figures and ensured the bowlers’ hard work paid off.

Published in the Express Tribune, June 6^th, 2010.