As the world beheld the lanky Stuart Broad who demolished the Aussies at Trent Bridge, another tall bowler from across the globe breathed fire in Colombo, his victims being the Lankan President’s XI players. Ishant Sharma rolled back the years to send down a sensational spell which read 7-1-23-5, as the SLPB team was shot out for 121 runs. Varun Aaron also picked 2 wickets, and the spin partners Ashwin and Harbhajan picked three between them.
Earlier the Indian side didn’t add much to their overnight score as they ended up for 351, to pave way for the Ishant Show. Bowlers overall had a prolific day, as 16 wickets tumbled on a lively pitch which continued to assist seam and pace. India started their second innings with a new opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, but they, along with Wrridhiman Saha, who came in at number 3, didn’t last long as the team found itself in a spot of bother at 28 for 3. KL Rahul and Cheteshwar Pujara, then steadied the Indian Ship as the visitors finished the eventful day at 112/3.
The anonymous star of the day was none other than Ishant Sharma. The speedster ripped through the SLPB batting line up which boasted of international players in Kushal Perera, Upul Tharanga and others. The paceman credited his performance to the use of the Kookaburra ball.
“Initially with Kookaburra ball it swings, and there was help for fast bowlers today,” said an elated Ishant. “Major difference is the ball. They also leave some grass here so the ball is seaming and swinging a bit. As you can see we also lost three wickets and they also lost quite a few wickets. New ball is important and after that how consistent you are with the old is going to make a huge difference.” he added
“We have been discussing how to maintain the ball, and how we will bowl in certain situations when the batsmen are set and ball is old. Ball is going to swing for 12-14 overs so after that how you will bowl is really important” , he concluded.
Edited By : Akanksha Agarwal
