In the series finale, Sri Lanka overwhelmed India by seven wickets to take the three-game series 2-1. Expectations for a thrilling final match were high, but the game lacked drama once the Indian batters failed to fire. The momentum shifted early thanks to a brilliant bowling performance by Wanindu Hasaranga.
Sri Lanka crushed India by seven wickets in the final T20I to clinch the three-match series 2-1. All the fans expected the series decider to be a good contest but it reduced to a no-thriller as the Indians failed to perform with the bat. Wanindu Hasaranga set up the stage for the Lankans with his excellent bowling.
After winning the toss, Indian captain Shikhar Dhawan decided to bat first. However, the slow nature of the pitch played right into the hands of the spinners, leaving the young Indian batting order devoid of rhythm. Wanindu Hasaranga exploited these conditions perfectly, bowling with a consistency that tore through the lineup.
India was held to a dismal 81/8, a result of Hasaranga's suffocating spell where he took four wickets for just 9 runs in four overs. Though Akila Danajaya didn't manage to get any wickets, he remained a constant threat. This performance resulted in India's worst-ever score against the Lankans and one of their lowest T20I totals of all time.
Sri Lanka played it safe, taking their time to read the pitch before steadily chasing down the small target. The Indian spinners provided some resistance, keeping the Lankans on their toes, and Rahul Chahar managed to claim three wickets. Even in defeat, the fighting spirit of the Indian squad was impressive.
Dhananjaya de Silva and Hasaranga guided Sri Lanka to the target of 82 in 14.3 overs, marking the first time Sri Lanka has ever won a T20I series against India. It was a special day for Wanindu Hasaranga, who celebrated his 24th birthday by being named both Player of the Match and Player of the Series for his outstanding all-round performance.