Before the first T20I in Mumbai on Tuesday, December 3, Hardik acknowledged how Sri Lanka took the game away from India during their Asia Cup clash in Dubai last year. The 29-year-old observed that while Sri Lankan players are highly passionate, the economic turmoil in their country has prompted them to put in an even better showing.
Speaking on Byju’s Cricket Live Show on Star Sports, Arnold admitted that the Lankans’ performances have gone up and down for a long time and it’s refreshing to see the opposition praise them. He explained:
While the 49-year-old believes the tourists hardly have any X-factor players, they are a collectively good side and must play with freedom. Arnold elaborated:
Dasun Shanaka and Co. eliminated India from the 2022 Asia Cup with a six-wicket win. They then lifted their sixth title after beating Pakistan by 23 runs in the final.
Sri Lanka go down to India by two runs in the final
The Lankans failed to chase down a modest 163 in the first T20I against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, losing the contest by two runs. The visitors did commendably with the ball after winning the toss, but India’s final flourish likely cost them the game.
The unbroken 68-run stand between Axar Patel and Deepak Hooda lifted the hosts from 94-5 to 162-5. Debutant Shivam Mavi starred for India with figures of 4-0-22-4, while Umran Malik and Harshal Patel picked up two scalps each.
The two sides will lock horns in the second T20I in Pune on Thursday, January 5.
Also Read: “I will call my home and then sleep” - Shivam Mavi on his magnificent international debut against Sri Lanka in 1st T20I
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