India endured a bruising defeat in the series finale, largely due to a failed batting effort. The Sri Lankan spinners dictated the pace of the game from the outset, leading their team to a commanding 110-run win and a 2-0 series victory. This result is particularly significant as it ends a 27-year drought for Sri Lanka in terms of winning a bilateral ODI series against India. India's chase of 249 fell apart quickly, ending in a meager 138 runs, with Dunith Wellalage playing the hero by taking five wickets.
Men in Blue experienced a humiliating defeat in the third and final ODI after exhibiting a poor show with the bat. Sri Lankan spinners yet again dominated the game right from the start and defeated India by a whopping 110 runs to clinch the series 2-0. Sri Lanka created history as they defeated India in a bilateral ODI series after a gap of 27 years. Chasing 249, Indian batters kept losing wickets cheaply and surrendered for 138. Sri Lanka’s young spinner Dunith Wellalage starred with a five-wicket haul.
The trouble began with Rohit Sharma's decision to bowl first, which turned out to be a mistake for the third game running. Opening pair Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando came out firing, dominating Mohammed Siraj in the early overs. They built a solid 89-run stand before Axar Patel managed to get a wicket. Nissanka exited with 45, while Fernando anchored the innings with a top score of 96.
Kusal Mendis chipped in with a vital 59, while several other batsmen failed to make an impact, scoring in the single digits. However, a timely 23 from Kamindu Mendis ensured Sri Lanka posted a challenging total of 248/7. For India, the bright spot was newcomer Riyan Parag, who impressed with a three-wicket haul.
India's chase started promisingly as Rohit Sharma found the boundary early, but Asitha Fernando quickly shifted the momentum by bowling out Shubman Gill for 6. The pressure mounted when Wellalage dismissed Rohit for 35. The situation went from bad to worse after Rishabh Pant threw his wicket away by stepping out of his crease. Virat Kohli, whom everyone was hoping would turn the tide, disappointed once again, scoring only 20. With the exception of Washington Sundar, who made 30, the Indian batters were completely outplayed by the Sri Lankan spin attack.