IND vs SL: Rohit Sharma defies KL Rahul's decision on DRS, regrets decision later - WATCH

Unlike the encounter on the previous day against Pakistan, Sri Lanka was able to put across a challenge in front of Team India at the R. Premadasa stadium. Even after enduring the opening blitz from Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, the Lankan Lions were steadfast and courtesy of an immaculate spell by Dunith Wellalage, the hosts made a comeback and restricted India to a minuscule total of 213 runs. While the target did not give a daunting impression as per the usual standards, Team India kept things tight and ended up registering a convincing win of 41 runs. 

3 things you need to know

• India defeated Sri Lanka by 41 runs in the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4s stage
• With the win India is through to the final of the Asia Cup 2023
• Kuldeep Yadav emerged to the fore once again with 4 wickets

READ: 'He gives us a lot of options': Rohit Sharma credits top wicket-taker for an incredible run in Asia Cup

Team India was pushed to the limit by Sri Lanka

While in hindsight the scorecard suggests a victory by a fair margin, Team India had to keep digging the entire time to secure a victory. This included premature appeals and even a bad DRS call. The latter came about in the 12th over when the Men in Blue were desperate for the 4th wicket. 

Hopeful DRS call by Sharma

As spin played a huge role in the match on Tuesday, Kuldeep Yadav was brought in to keep the pressure intact. On the third ball of the 12th over the leggie tossed it up which spunned away to beat the left-hander, Charith Asalanka, the ball apparently brushed the gloves of wicketkeeper Rahul and went up in the air for Rohit Sharma to take the catch in the slip. After grabbing the ball, Sharma made a loud appeal and it seemed he was convinced that Asalanka had nicked the ball. Kuldeep seconded him, and the matter went upstairs despite KL Rahul cutting out an unconvinced figure. The replays showcased a flatline between bat and bowl hence a review went in vain. A seemingly disappointed Sharma could only exhibit a cheeky smile afterward.

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While the DRS did not provide Team India with any output, the expenditure of the call did not affect the overall context of the game as India eventually got the better of Sri Lanka. With the win, India have qualified for the final of the Asia Cup 2023. Before the final, India will take on Bangladesh on September 15 to conclude the Super fours scenario.