WC 2023: India demolishes SL to reach Semis

WC 2023: India demolishes SL to reach Semis. India delivered another commanding performance as they ruthlessly dismantled Sri Lanka, securing a resounding victory by 302 runs at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. With this emphatic win, their seventh in as many matches, India achieved the distinction of being the first nation to secure a spot in the tournament's semifinals.

The match showcased an array of splendid highlights in the Cricket World Cup 2023. Half-centuries from star players Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer propelled India to an imposing total of 357/8, having been invited to bat first. Although Rohit Sharma's early dismissal in the very first over, courtesy of Dilshan Madushanka, who later went on to secure a remarkable five-wicket haul, initially raised concerns, Kohli and Gill formed a formidable partnership of 189 runs. Madushanka eventually broke this partnership and deprived both well-set batsmen of their centuries.

Nevertheless, Sri Lanka managed to regain momentum by dismissing KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav. Shreyas Iyer then showcased a scintillating display of form, amassing an impressive 82 off just 56 balls to ensure India's total surpassed the 300-run mark. A couple of powerful blows from Ravindra Jadeja in the final overs further bolstered the total, pushing it beyond the 350-run mark.

India's bowlers continued to assert their dominance. Jasprit Bumrah provided an ideal start by claiming a wicket in the very first ball. Mohammed Siraj, fresh off his spectacular 6/21 performance in the Asia Cup 2023 finals, swiftly joined the party by taking two more wickets in the same over, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 3-4. Mohammed Shami, displaying exceptional form, completed a five-wicket haul as the Sri Lankan innings unraveled in just 19.4 overs.