India Masters defated Sri Lanka Masters by 4 runs in the opener of the International Masters League T20 2025 at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai on Saturday, 22 February 2025. (More Cricket News)
Asked to bat first, India posted a competitive total of 222/4 in 20 overs. Despite early setbacks, with Amabati Rayadu (5 off 5 balls) and Sachin Tendulkar falling cheaply to Suranga Lakmal for just 10 off 8 balls including two boundaries, the middle order stabilized the innings.
Gurkeerat Singh Mann smashed a solid 44 off 32, while Stuart Binny accelerated the scoring with a blistering 68 off 31 balls. Yusuf Pathan then stole the show with his explosive 56 off just 22 deliveries, propelling India to a commanding total along with the help of Yuvraj Singh's 31 off 22 balls.
However, Sri Lanka Masters began their chase with intent. Captain Kumar Sangakkara led from the front, scoring a fluent 51 off 30 balls.
Sri Lanka Masters began their chase with intent. Captain Kumar Sangakkara led from the front, scoring a fluent 51 off 30 balls.
Asela Gunaratne with his 37 off 25 and Jeevan Mendis with 42 off 17 kept Sri Lanka in contention. But then, disciplined bowling from the Indian side denied Lankans their victory.
Vinay Kumar, Abhimanyu Mithun, and Dhawan Kulkarni, claimed two wickets each. Irfan Pathan picked up three and India, restricted Sri Lanka to 218/9, falling just four runs short of the target.
Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar is leading the Indian side whereas Kumar Sangakkara is leading the Sri Lankan side in the tournament.
India Masters will face England Masters on January 25, meanwhile, Sri Lanka Masters will take on South Africa Masters on January 26 in their next fixtures.
