Recap: India Vs Sri Lanka 2011 Cricket Series
The India vs Sri Lanka 2011 cricket series was a highly anticipated event in the world of cricket. Spanning multiple formats, the series showcased some thrilling cricketing action between two competitive teams. Let’s delve into a detailed recap of this exciting cricket series.
Background:
The India vs Sri Lanka 2011 series was significant as it marked the first time the two teams faced off after the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final, where India emerged victorious. This series was scheduled to consist of three Tests, five One Day Internationals (ODIs), and one Twenty20 International (T20I).
Test Series:
The Test series began on July 18, 2011, with the first match held at Galle International Stadium in Sri Lanka. India won the toss and elected to bat first, posting a formidable total of 520 runs in their first innings, courtesy of a brilliant double century by VVS Laxman. In reply, Sri Lanka managed 192 runs in their first innings and 274 runs in their second innings. Despite some strong performances from Sri Lankan players like Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara, India clinched a convincing victory by an innings and 54 runs.
The second Test took place at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India posted 642 runs in their first innings, with a magnificent double century from Rahul Dravid and centuries from Virender Sehwag and Laxman. Sri Lanka, in response, put up 707 runs in their first innings, thanks to a superb triple century by Jayawardene and a century by Tharanga Paranavitana. The match ended in a draw due to rain interruptions.
The final Test was held at P. Sara Oval in Colombo, where India won the toss and chose to bat first. This time, Sehwag stole the show with a scintillating double century, guiding India to a total of 707 runs in their first innings. Sri Lanka managed 520 runs in their first innings and 122 runs in their second innings, securing a comfortable victory for India by an innings and 81 runs. With this win, India claimed the Test series 1-0.
ODI Series:
The ODI series kicked off on July 21, 2011, at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota. Sri Lanka batted first and set a target of 283 runs for India. India, led by a brilliant century from Virat Kohli, chased down the target with ease, winning the match by 4 wickets.
The second ODI took place at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla. Sri Lanka, batting first, scored 289 runs in their innings. In a rain-affected chase, India reached the revised target of 171 runs in 23 overs, thanks to a splendid knock by Gautam Gambhir, winning the match by 7 wickets.
The third ODI was held at the same venue in Dambulla. Sri Lanka, batting first, posted 286 runs in their innings. India’s chase was led by centuries from Kohli and Suresh Raina, securing a comfortable victory by 6 wickets.
The fourth ODI at R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo saw India bat first and score 267 runs. Sri Lanka fell short in their chase, with India emerging victorious by 20 runs.
The fifth and final ODI took place at R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. India posted 294 runs batting first. Sri Lanka, in response, managed 274 runs, giving India a 20-run victory and a 4-1 series win.
T20I:
The solitary T20I match was held at Pallekele Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. Sri Lanka batted first and scored 120 runs in their innings. India’s chase was clinical, achieving the target in just 15.5 overs with 7 wickets remaining.
Overall, the India vs Sri Lanka 2011 cricket series was a treat for cricket fans, featuring exciting performances from both sides across all formats.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Who were the standout performers in the India vs Sri Lanka 2011 cricket series?
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Standout performers included VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, and Mahela Jayawardene with notable performances in batting.
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Did any bowlers leave a mark in the series?
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Zaheer Khan, Ishant Sharma, and Rangana Herath were among the standout bowlers, making crucial contributions with the ball.
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Were there any memorable moments or records broken during the series?
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Yes, Mahela Jayawardene’s triple century in the second Test and Virat Kohli’s consistent centuries in the ODIs were some of the standout moments from the series.
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How did the teams perform in terms of fielding and overall team strategy?
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Both teams displayed good fielding standards, but India’s overall team strategy and execution were more effective, leading to their series victories.
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Were there any controversies or heated moments during the series?
- The series was played in a competitive yet sportsmanlike manner, with no major controversies or heated exchanges reported between the players.
In conclusion, the India vs Sri Lanka 2011 cricket series will be remembered for its fiercely competitive cricket, individual brilliance, and memorable performances from players on both sides.
