In Friday, August 2, in Colombo, during the thrilling first ODI between India and Sri Lanka that resulted in a draw, former India pacer Dodda Ganesh questioned Arshdeep Singh’s stroke choice, which ultimately led to his dismissal.
At the R Premadasa Stadium, India was pursuing a 231 aim. With two wickets in hand and a well-positioned Shivam Dube at the crease, they needed just one run from fifteen balls to win the match. But after missing a delivery that came back in with the arm, Dube was out LBW thanks to a dismissal by Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka. When India’s No. 11 hitter, Arshdeep Singh, came to the middle, the game was restarted.
With his first delivery, the Punjab pacer attempted a slog sweep, but all he could do was a useless attempt at going for the big shot. After the ball struck his rear leg, he was declared out of bounds. Arshdeep examined the conversation, but to no effect.
Dodda Ganesh believed that at the crucial situation, Arshdeep had to have demonstrated greater game awareness.
The 25-year-old’s shot selection has drawn criticism from India’s new head coach, Gautam Gambhir, according to the former.
“A little game awareness is crucial for every cricketer, but you can’t expect runs from the last-string players.” Ganesh posted on his official “X” Twitter, “Coach Gambhir isn’t going to be impressed by that shot from Arshdeep.
You can’t expect run from the tail enders but a bit of game awareness is paramount for any cricketer. That shot from Arshdeep isn’t going to impress the coach Gambhir #SLvIND #DoddaMathu
— Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) August 2, 2024
After India appeared to be winning easily at one point, the 51-year-old continued to praise the Sri Lankan players for their valiant comeback. Ganesh said that the tie will give the home team a boost.
Also Read: IND vs SL 2024: Top 10 Funniest Memes from 1st ODI
“And there is a draw. Sri Lankan bowlers shown excellent application. For the underdogs, this will be a huge morale boost “Ganesh commented on X.
And it’s a tie. Great application shown by Sri Lankan bowlers. This is a going to be a great moral booster for the underdogs #SLvIND
— Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) August 2, 2024
The same location will host the second ODI on Sunday, August 4. Which club wins the first two games of the three-match series will be interesting to watch.
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