India fell 16 runs short against Sri Lanka in the second T20I at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Chasing a massive 207, Axar Patel stood out with a fantastic 65 off 31 balls, but it wasn't quite enough to secure a win. Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka held his nerve in the final over, defending 21 runs to bring the series to a 1-1 deadlock.
Sri Lanka came out swinging in the first innings, as Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis put on 80 runs in the first eight overs. The momentum shifted further in Sri Lanka's favor after Arshdeep Singh bowled three straight no-balls. While Mendis scored a fifty before being trapped LBW by Yuzvendra Chahal, India clawed back some control as Umran Malik and Axar Patel took wickets in quick succession, reducing the visitors to 96/3.
The momentum swung back to Sri Lanka thanks to a sharp 37-run cameo by Charith Asalanka. However, the star of the show was captain Dasun Shanaka, who dismantled the Indian bowling lineup with a series of boundaries. Remaining not out on 56, Shanaka propelled his team to a final total of 206/6.
India's pursuit began poorly, with Kasun Rajitha striking twice in the second over to dismiss Ishan Kishan (2) and Shubman Gill (5). The pressure mounted further when Dilshan Madushanka got rid of debutant Rahul Tripathi (5). India looked to be in deep trouble at 57/5, but a strong partnership between Suryakumar Yadav (51) and Axar Patel helped steady the ship.
The duo put on a spirited 91 runs in just 40 balls, suddenly putting India back in the game. Though Shivam Mavi added a quick 26, Sri Lanka remained composed to secure the win. The final match to decide the series is scheduled for January 7 in Rajkot.