In a historic display of dominance, India etched their name in cricketing annals during the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram. The Men in Blue scripted a resounding victory, annihilating the visitors by a colossal 317 runs, marking the largest margin of triumph in 50-over international cricket. This remarkable feat surpassed New Zealand’s previous record of a 290-run win over Ireland in July 2008.

The decisive moment unfolded as Sri Lanka, in pursuit of India’s mammoth 391, crumbled under the relentless pressure, managing only 73 runs in 22 overs. Mohammed Siraj spearheaded the Indian bowling attack, wreaking havoc with figures of four for 32 in his ten overs. Supported by Mohammed Shami’s two wickets for 20 and Kuldeep Yadav’s two for 16, the Sri Lankan batting order succumbed, with Ashen Bandara unable to bat due to an injury sustained in a collision with Jeffrey Vandersay during fielding.

India’s commanding victory was orchestrated by Virat Kohli’s masterclass, as he notched up his 46th ODI century. Kohli’s unbeaten 166, coupled with Shubman Gill’s dazzling 116 off 97 balls, propelled India to an imposing total of 390 for five in their 50 overs. Kohli’s century not only anchored the innings but also saw him surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record of the most ODI centuries at home, claiming his 21st ton in just 101 innings.

This encounter marked Sri Lanka’s fourth-lowest ODI total, following scores of 43 against South Africa, 55 against West Indies, and 67 against England. Notably, it stood as the third lowest total against India in ODIs, trailing Bangladesh’s 58 all out and Zimbabwe’s 65 all out. In a display of cricketing prowess, India’s resounding victory left a lasting imprint, showcasing the team’s formidable batting prowess and bowling prowess.