India vs Sri Lanka T20: Watch Rinku Singh, Suryakumar and Sanju Samson's magical moments that secured victory in Pallekele

India secured a thrilling 3-0 clean sweep against Sri Lanka in the T20I series with a dramatic victory in the third and final match in Pallekele. Needing just 9 runs off the last two overs with six wickets in hand, Sri Lanka's hopes were dashed when captain Suryakumar Yadav handed the ball to Rinku Singh, a player who had never bowled in his 23-match T20I career. Earlier, Sanju Samson redeemed his earlier mistakes with a critical catch that turned the tide for India against Sri Lanka.

Rinku Singh becomes New Star in the 19th Over

On a spin-friendly track, Rinku Singh's introduction to the bowling attack was unexpected and risky but turned out to be a brilliant move. His first delivery was a dot ball, with Kusal Perera attempting a reverse-slog but failing to connect. The tension in the air was palpable.



The turning point came with Rinku’s second ball. He bowled a short-of-a-length delivery that Perera mistimed, resulting in a top edge. Rinku moved swiftly towards the off-side and completed a caught-and-bowled dismissal, taking his maiden T20I wicket.

Coach Gautam Gambir Seen Smiling Ear-to-Ear

This crucial breakthrough brought a smile to head coach Gautam Gambhir’s face, reflecting the high stakes of the moment.

"Oohh," Gambhir's reaction was caught on the telecast, highlighting the suspense.

Rinku's over continued to impress. On the final delivery, he claimed the wicket of Ramesh Mendis, ending the over with remarkable figures of 2 for 3. His two wickets and three runs conceded drastically altered the equation, leaving Sri Lanka needing six runs off the final over.

Suryakumar decided to bowl the last over himself. Displaying nerves of steel, he managed to restrict the hosts and push the game into a Super Over. India emerged victorious in the Super Over, securing the win.

India’s victory will be remembered for Rinku Singh’s unexpected heroics and Suryakumar Yadav’s bold captaincy, which clinched a memorable and dramatic series win.

India vs Sri Lanka: Samson's Crucial Moment

With Sri Lanka needing just 21 runs from 21 balls, India was desperate for a breakthrough. Samson's catch came at a crucial juncture, helping shift the momentum. In the 17th over, bowled by Washington Sundar, the match saw a significant turning point.

Sundar's Impactful Over

Sundar, who had already dismissed Wanindu Hasaranga, delivered a flighted off-break from around the wicket to Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka. The ball turned slightly away after pitching, causing Asalanka to edge it faintly. Samson, alert and focused, made no mistake this time, safely grabbing the catch.

Turning Point in the Match

Asalanka walked back to the pavilion even before the umpire's decision, signaling his confidence in the dismissal. Sundar, now on a hat-trick, had helped India claw back into the contest. Samson's catch not only halted Sri Lanka's progress but also showcased his determination to make amends for his earlier drop.