Strategic Corner: Spin Threat Looms Large As IND To Take On SL In 2nd ODI

SL spinners took 9 out of 10 Indian wickets [PTI]SL spinners took 9 out of 10 Indian wickets [PTI]

The first ODI between India and Sri Lanka ended in a tie after both the teams scored 230. India were expected to win the contest, rather easily, but the Sri Lankan spinners spun their web and came back strongly in the game.

What went wrong for India?

At one stage, india needed a solitary run off 14 balls, with two wickets left. However, Sri Lankan skipper, Charith Asalanka showed his class and picked up back-to-back wickets to steal the spotlight from the Indian side.

After the game, the big question came up - Where did it go wrong for Team India?

The answer is simple, the Indian side failed to tackle the Sri Lankan spinners. The pitch at the R Premadasa Stadium offered help for the spinners and the hosts exploited it to perfection.

They used the rough patches created on ths surface to their advantage, and this made life difficult for the Indian batters. Also, batting second didn't help India's cause as the ball was gripping on the surface.

India's state against the spinners could be noted from the fact that out of the 10 wickets, 9 were taken by spin bowling, and they dominated the proceedings against the best Indian batters.

What India needs to do in 2nd ODI?

The simple answer is, tackle the spinners well. Apart from Rohit Sharma, the other batters failed to stamp their authority over the Lankan bowlers, and that made Sri Lanka's life easier. If India counter-punches their spin bowlers, then the hosts will go on the back-foot.

The match is taking place on the same surface, and after the 10-over mark, the pitch gets worn out, hence, tackling the spinners for the next 35-40 overs becomes the key for the visitors.