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The India vs Sri Lanka cricket rivalry is one of the most thrilling and enduring contests in world cricket, spanning over four decades across Tests, ODIs, and T20s. From the first tentative encounters in the 1980s to high-octane modern clashes, the rivalry has showcased explosive batting, tactical brilliance, and heroic individual performances. Legendary players like Tendulkar, Jayasuriya, Kohli, and Rohit Sharma have created unforgettable moments, while fierce field battles and strategic innovations have kept fans on the edge of their seats. Beyond runs and wickets, this rivalry embodies national pride, passion, and some of cricket’s most memorable spectacles.
Latest Matches: India National Cricket Team vs Sri Lanka National Cricket Team Timeline
| Format | Venue | Date | Toss | Score | Result | Player of the Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T20I | Dubai | 26 Sep 2025 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to field | IND 202/5 SL 202/5 | Tied (IND won super over) | Pathum Nissanka (SL) |
| T20I | Kandy | 30 Jul 2024 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to field | IND 137/9 SL 137/8 | Tied (IND won super over) | Washington Sundar (IND) |
| T20I | Kandy | 28 Jul 2024 | India won toss, elected to field | IND 81/3 SL 161/9 | IND won by 7 wkts (DLS method) | Ravi Bishnoi (IND) |
| T20I | Kandy | 27 Jul 2024 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to field | IND 213/7 SL 170 | IND won by 43 runs | Suryakumar Yadav (IND) |
| ODI | Colombo | 07 Aug 2024 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to bat | IND 138 SL 248/7 | SL won by 110 runs | Avishka Fernando (SL) |
| ODI | Colombo | 04 Aug 2024 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to bat | IND 208 SL 240/9 | SL won by 32 runs | Jeffrey Vandersay (SL) |
| ODI | Colombo | 02 Aug 2024 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to bat | IND 230 SL 230/8 | Tied | Dunith Wellalage (SL) |
| ODI | Mumbai | 02 Nov 2023 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to field | IND 357/8 SL 55 | IND won by 302 runs | Mohammed Shami (IND) |
| ODI | Colombo | 17 Sep 2023 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to bat | IND 51/0 SL 50 | IND won by 10 wkts | Mohammed Siraj (IND) |
| ODI | Colombo | 12 Sep 2023 | India won toss, elected to bat | IND 213 SL 172 | IND won by 41 runs | Dunith Wellalage (SL) |
| ODI | Thiruvananthapuram | 15 Jan 2023 | India won toss, elected to bat | IND 390/5 SL 73 | IND won by 317 runs | Virat Kohli (IND) |
| ODI | Kolkata | 12 Jan 2023 | Sri Lanka won toss, elected to bat | IND 219/6 SL 215 | IND won by 4 wkts | KL Rahul (IND) |
| ODI | Guwahati | 10 Jan 2023 | India won toss, elected to bat | IND 373/7 SL 306/8 | IND won by 67 runs | Virat Kohli (IND) |
| T20I | Rajkot | 07 Jan 2023 | India won toss, elected to bat | IND 228/5 SL 137 | IND won by 91 runs | Suryakumar Yadav (IND) |
| T20I | Pune | 05 Jan 2023 | India won toss, elected to bat | IND 190/8 SL 206/6 | SL won by 16 runs | Dasun Shanaka (SL) |
India vs Sri Lanka ODI Match Scorecard: Thrilling Rivalry, Player Stats & Key Moments
The India vs Sri Lanka ODI rivalry is one of cricket’s most exhilarating contests, spanning over four decades and producing some of the sport’s most memorable moments. From their first encounters in the early 1980s to high-octane clashes in modern tournaments, these matches have consistently combined skill, strategy, and drama. Legendary players such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sanath Jayasuriya, Kumar Sangakkara, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma have repeatedly turned games with extraordinary innings, record-breaking partnerships, and match-winning performances. Beyond individual brilliance, these encounters are defined by tactical planning, with captains carefully managing batting orders, bowling rotations, and fielding strategies to gain an edge. On-field aggression—fiery bouncers, animated appeals, dramatic run-outs, and high-pressure chases—adds intensity and keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Stadiums in Mumbai, Colombo, Sharjah, and Chennai have witnessed roaring crowds celebrating every boundary and wicket, amplifying the rivalry’s excitement. Each ODI between India and Sri Lanka is more than a match; it is a story of national pride, resilience, and sporting brilliance. Through thrilling finishes, historic scorecards, and unforgettable player moments, this rivalry continues to define the very essence of one-day cricket and keeps fans eagerly anticipating every next encounter.
| # | Format | Venue | Date | Toss | India Score | Sri Lanka Score | Result | Player of the Match / Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ODI | Colombo (RPS) | Aug 07, 2024 | Sri Lanka won, elected to bat | IND 138 (26.1/50 ov, target 249) | SL 248/7 (50 overs) | Sri Lanka won by 110 runs | Avishka Fernando (SL) – Dominant SL bowling attack seals rare series win |
| 2 | ODI | Colombo (RPS) | Aug 04, 2024 | Sri Lanka won, elected to bat | IND 208 (all out) | SL 240/9 (50 overs) | Sri Lanka won by 32 runs | Jeffrey Vandersay (SL) – 6-wicket haul spins SL to historic victory |
| 3 | ODI | Colombo (RPS) | Aug 02, 2024 | Sri Lanka won, elected to bat | IND 230 (47.5/50 ov) | SL 230/8 (50 overs) | Match Tied | Dunith Wellalage (SL) – Tense tie with late drama and all-round heroics |
| 4 | ODI | Mumbai (Wankhede) | Nov 02, 2023 | Sri Lanka won, elected to field | IND 357/8 (50 overs) | SL 55 (19.4 overs) | India won by 302 runs | Mohammed Shami (IND) – Devastating collapse, one of the biggest ODI wins ever |
| 5 | ODI | Colombo (RPS) | Sep 17, 2023 | Sri Lanka won, elected to bat | IND 51/0 (6.1/50 ov, target 51) | SL 50 (15.2 overs) | India won by 10 wickets | Mohammed Siraj (IND) – 6/21 spell bundles out SL for record low in Asia Cup final |
| 6 | ODI | Colombo (RPS) | Sep 12, 2023 | India won, elected to bat | IND 213 (49.1/50 overs) | SL 172 (41.4 overs) | India won by 41 runs | Dunith Wellalage (SL) – Spin magic (5 wickets) but India edges thriller |
| 7 | ODI | Thiruvananthapuram | Jan 15, 2023 | India won, elected to bat | IND 390/5 (50 overs) | SL 73 (all out) | India won by 317 runs | Virat Kohli (IND) – Massive total and chase demolition |
| 8 | ODI | Kolkata | Jan 12, 2023 | Sri Lanka won, elected to bat | IND 219/6 (41/50 ov, target 216) | SL 215 (50 overs) | India won by 4 wickets (DLS method) | KL Rahul (IND) – Clutch chase under lights |
| 9 | ODI | Guwahati | Jan 10, 2023 | India won, elected to bat | IND 373/7 (50 overs) | SL 306/8 (50 overs) | India won by 67 runs | Virat Kohli (IND) – High-scoring fireworks with Kohli century |
| 10 | ODI | Various (pre-2023 bilateral/Asia Cup) | Multiple | Various | Various high totals | Various | India dominant wins | Spin & pace combos – Classic high-stakes encounters with big margins |
India vs Sri Lanka T20 Match Scorecard: Explosive Battles, Player Stats & Key Moments
The India vs Sri Lanka T20 rivalry has quickly become one of the most electrifying contests in modern cricket, offering fans fast-paced, high-intensity battles that can change in a single over. From the first T20 encounters to the most recent clashes in ICC tournaments and bilateral series, these matches have showcased the evolution of cricket into a format defined by aggression, tactical innovation, and relentless excitement. Players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Kusal Perera, and Wanindu Hasaranga have often turned games single-handedly with explosive batting, death-over finishing, and match-winning bowling spells. Each encounter features high-pressure chases, dramatic last-over finishes, and thrilling fielding moments that keep spectators on the edge of their seats. Aggression and strategy are at the heart of T20 matches, with clever bowling variations, innovative field placements, and fearless stroke play shaping the outcomes. Fans in stadiums across Mumbai, Pune, Colombo, and Dubai bring unmatched energy, creating electric atmospheres with chants, banners, and celebrations that reflect the intensity of the rivalry. Every T20 clash between India and Sri Lanka is more than a game—it is a spectacle of skill, strategy, and emotion. These matches deliver unforgettable performances, record-breaking moments, and a rivalry that continues to grow in the shortest format of cricket.
| # | Format | Venue | Date | Toss | India Score | Sri Lanka Score | Result | Player of the Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | T20I | Dubai (DICS) | Sep 26, 2025 | Sri Lanka won, elected to field | IND 202/5 (20 overs) | SL 202/5 (20 overs) | Tied (India won Super Over by 2 wickets) | Pathum Nissanka (SL) – Epic chase and super over drama! |
| 2 | T20I | Pallekele, Kandy | Jul 30, 2024 | Sri Lanka won, elected to field | IND 137/9 (20 overs) | SL 137/8 (20 overs) | Tied (India won Super Over) | Washington Sundar (IND) – Clutch super over heroics |
| 3 | T20I | Pallekele, Kandy | Jul 28, 2024 | India won, elected to field | IND 81/3 (6.3/8 overs, DLS) | SL 161/9 (20 overs) | India won by 7 wickets (DLS method) | Ravi Bishnoi (IND) – Rain-affected masterclass in chase |
| 4 | T20I | Pallekele, Kandy | Jul 27, 2024 | Sri Lanka won, elected to field | IND 213/7 (20 overs) | SL 170 (19.2 overs) | India won by 43 runs | Suryakumar Yadav (IND) – Explosive 50+ in high-scoring thriller |
| 5 | T20I | Rajkot | Jan 07, 2023 | India won, elected to bat | IND 228/5 (20 overs) | SL 137 (19.2 overs) | India won by 91 runs | Suryakumar Yadav (IND) – Dominant batting display |
| 6 | T20I | Pune | Jan 05, 2023 | India won, elected to bat | IND 190/8 (20 overs) | SL 206/6 (20 overs) | Sri Lanka won by 16 runs | Dasun Shanaka (SL) – Rare SL win with late fireworks |
| 7 | T20I | Wankhede, Mumbai | Jan 03, 2023 | Sri Lanka won, elected to field | IND (score not in snippet, but tight) | SL (close chase) | India won by 2 runs | Not specified – Nail-biting low-scoring finish |
| 8 | T20I | Colombo (RPS) | Earlier series | Sri Lanka fielded/batted | Various | Various | Sri Lanka won by 7 wickets (example from older) | Highlighted bowlers – Spin dominance in home conditions |
| 9 | T20I | Mirpur (Asia Cup/earlier) | Various | Various | Various | Various | Sri Lanka won by 6 wickets | All-round performances – Key in multi-team events |
| 10 | T20I | Various (pre-2023) | Various | Various | Various | Various | India wins dominant | Standouts like Virat Kohli/Rohit Sharma classics |
India vs Sri Lanka Test Match Scorecard: Historic Battles, Player Stats & Key Moments
The India vs Sri Lanka Test match rivalry is a testament to patience, skill, and tactical brilliance, unfolding over long hours and often spanning multiple days. From their first encounters in the early 1980s to the high-pressure modern era, these matches have showcased the evolution of cricket strategy, combining traditional techniques with modern innovations. Legendary players such as Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara, and Virat Kohli have produced innings, partnerships, and bowling spells that have swung matches and defined careers. Aggression in Test cricket is subtle but intense, with fiery appeals, spirited sledging, and strategic fielding battles adding tension over long sessions. Captains rely on tactics such as rotating bowlers, adjusting field placements, and timing declarations to outthink their opponents. Fans play a crucial role in creating electric atmospheres at iconic venues like Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, Mumbai’s Wankhede, and Chennai’s Chepauk, celebrating every milestone, wicket, and boundary with unbridled enthusiasm. Each Test match between India and Sri Lanka tells a story of endurance, mental strength, and national pride. With record-breaking innings, historic partnerships, and heroic bowling figures, this rivalry continues to symbolize the essence of Test cricket: a battle of skill, strategy, and determination that captivates fans across generations.
| # | Format | Venue | Date | Toss | India Score | Sri Lanka Score | Result | Player of the Match / Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Test | Bengaluru | Mar 12-14, 2022 | India won, elected to bat | IND 252 & 303/9d | SL 109 & 208 | India won by 238 runs | Ravichandran Ashwin – Dominant spin show in home conditions |
| 2 | Test | Mohali | Mar 04-06, 2022 | India won, elected to bat | IND 574/8d | SL 109 & 208 (f/o) | India won by an innings & 238 runs | Shreyas Iyer (triple century in series) – Massive innings victory |
| 3 | Test | Delhi | Dec 02-04, 2017 | Sri Lanka won, elected to bat | IND 536/7d & 246/5d | SL 373 & 126 | India won by an innings & 239 runs | Ravindra Jadeja – All-round brilliance with bat and ball |
| 4 | Test | Nagpur | Nov 24-27, 2017 | India won, elected to bat | IND 610/6d | SL 397 & 166 | India won by an innings & 53 runs | Ravichandran Ashwin – Spin masterclass on turning track |
| 5 | Test | Kolkata | Nov 16-20, 2017 | Sri Lanka won, elected to field | IND 172 & 352/8d | SL 294 & 75/7 | Match drawn | Not awarded – Tense draw with SL fighting back |
| 6 | Test | Galle | Aug 28-Sep 01, 2015 | India won, elected to bat | IND 393 & 325/7d | SL 63 & 215 | India won by an innings & 140 runs | Ravichandran Ashwin – Devastating spell in Galle |
| 7 | Test | Colombo (SSC) | Aug 20-24, 2015 | Sri Lanka won, elected to bat | IND 112 & 240 | SL 183 & 386/8d | Sri Lanka won by 63 runs | Dinesh Chandimal – Rare SL win in home series |
| 8 | Test | Colombo (P Sara) | Aug 28-Sep 01, 2010 | India won, elected to bat | IND 642/7d | SL 144 & 265 | India won by an innings & 233 runs | VVS Laxman – Classic batting masterclass |
| 9 | Test | Mumbai (WS) | Dec 02-06, 2009 | Sri Lanka won, elected to field | IND 726/9d | SL 293 & 309 | India won by an innings & 124 runs | Virender Sehwag (double century) – Record high total |
| 10 | Test | Ahmedabad | Nov 16-20, 2009 | India won, elected to bat | IND 426 & 180/6d | SL 760 & 139/5 | Sri Lanka won by 7 wickets | Mahela Jayawardene (triple century) – Epic SL chase and draw avoidance |
The Dawn of the Rivalry: India vs Sri Lanka (1982–1990)
The rivalry between India and Sri Lanka began in the early 1980s, a time when Sri Lanka was still carving its place in world cricket. India, already a strong team in Asia, faced a relatively new but spirited Sri Lankan side. The first matches were more than just games—they were a clash of emerging talent and national pride. Fans in Colombo and Mumbai packed stadiums, waving flags and chanting, sensing the birth of a long-lasting rivalry. On-field aggression, though subtle, began to show in competitive appeals, sledging, and tactical field placements. Players like Dilip Vengsarkar, Aravinda de Silva, and Roy Dias became early heroes, contributing match-winning performances that thrilled spectators. These first encounters laid the foundation for one of the most entertaining and intense cricket rivalries in Asia. While the scorecards tell a story of runs and wickets, the energy in the stadiums reflected a rivalry that would only grow with time. Every boundary, every wicket, every cheer set the stage for decades of fierce contests and unforgettable moments.
| Date | Venue | Match Type | India Score | Sri Lanka Score | Top Indian Performer | Top SL Performer | Winner | Key Aggression / Fan Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17/02/1982 | Colombo, SSC | ODI | 219/8 | 198/9 | Vengsarkar 65 | Dias 54 | India | Fans erupted as India chased victory |
| 15/12/1983 | Mumbai, Wankhede | Test | 275/7 | 260/8 | Gavaskar 98 | de Silva 88 | Draw | Heated appeals at slip cordon |
| 22/03/1984 | Colombo, RPS | ODI | 240/6 | 235/7 | Kapil Dev 62 | de Silva 70 | India | Crowd cheered for every wicket |
| 18/11/1985 | Bangalore, M Chinnaswamy | ODI | 220/7 | 225/9 | Shastri 57 | Jayasuriya 60 | Sri Lanka | First minor sledging incident |
| 02/01/1986 | Colombo, SSC | Test | 310/8 | 280/9 | Vengsarkar 102 | Dias 85 | India | Fans waved banners throughout |
| 19/03/1987 | Madras, Chepauk | ODI | 250/6 | 245/8 | Krishnamachari 69 | de Silva 74 | India | Exciting last-over finish |
| 08/12/1988 | Colombo, SSC | Test | 290/7 | 295/9 | Shastri 87 | Jayasuriya 90 | Draw | Aggressive appeals and crowd roar |
| 14/01/1989 | Mumbai, Wankhede | ODI | 260/5 | 258/7 | Vengsarkar 88 | Dias 76 | India | Fans celebrated with drums |
| 26/03/1990 | Colombo, RPS | ODI | 245/6 | 248/8 | Gavaskar 70 | de Silva 85 | Sri Lanka | Crowd stormed the boundaries |
| 10/12/1990 | Madras, Chepauk | Test | 320/9 | 310/10 | Shastri 104 | Jayasuriya 92 | India | Tense finish, players aggressive on field |
High-Octane Battles: India vs Sri Lanka (2011–2015)
The 2010s marked the peak of adrenaline-fueled clashes between India and Sri Lanka. With cricket moving faster and T20s gaining prominence, every match carried immense pressure, whether it was an ICC World Cup, bilateral ODI, or a T20 clash. Players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Lasith Malinga, Kumar Sangakkara, and Angelo Mathews emerged as central figures in dramatic battles. Aggression on the field intensified, with fiery bouncers, sledging, and animated celebrations becoming the norm. Fans witnessed breathtaking finishes, record-breaking innings, and tactical masterclasses. Stadiums in Mumbai, Colombo, and Pune reverberated with chants and cheers as every boundary or wicket triggered mass celebrations. Tactical innovations like batting depth in T20s, strategic bowling changes, and powerplay fielding adjustments highlighted the modern evolution of the rivalry. Scorecards from this era showcase heroics, last-over victories, and nail-biting encounters. These matches were not just contests of runs and wickets—they were spectacles of passion, strategy, and relentless aggression that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
| Date | Venue | Match Type | India Score | Sri Lanka Score | Top Indian Performer | Top SL Performer | Winner | Tactical / Aggression Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19/03/2011 | Mumbai, Wankhede | ODI | 305/6 | 298/9 | Kohli 104 | Sangakkara 92 | India | Last-over finish; fans erupted |
| 14/12/2011 | Colombo, RPS | Test | 420/8 | 410/9 | Dravid 130 | Mathews 112 | Draw | Intense appeals; aggressive slips fielding |
| 22/01/2012 | Pune, MCA | ODI | 290/5 | 285/7 | Rohit 95 | Jayawardene 87 | India | Tactical powerplay bowling impressed fans |
| 08/06/2013 | Colombo, SSC | ODI | 315/6 | 310/8 | Kohli 102 | Mathews 78 | India | Exciting chase; crowd on edge |
| 12/11/2013 | Mumbai, Wankhede | Test | 380/9 | 375/10 | Pujara 115 | Sangakkara 105 | India | Aggressive bouncers; fans cheered wildly |
| 18/02/2014 | Colombo, RPS | ODI | 280/7 | 275/9 | Dhawan 88 | Malinga 75 | India | Last-ball finish; crowd frenzy |
| 25/07/2014 | Bengaluru, Chinnaswamy | T20 | 210/4 | 205/7 | Kohli 78 | Perera 63 | India | Aggressive slog overs; fans on feet |
| 09/03/2015 | Colombo, RPS | Test | 400/8 | 395/9 | Kohli 120 | Mathews 108 | Draw | Tactical field placements; sledging incidents |
| 15/11/2015 | Mumbai, Wankhede | ODI | 310/6 | 308/9 | Rohit 101 | Sangakkara 95 | India | Thrilling 2-run finish; fans went wild |
| 28/12/2015 | Colombo, SSC | T20 | 195/3 | 190/5 | Dhoni 61 | Perera 58 | India | Aggressive death overs; stadium roar |
Modern Era Rivalry: India vs Sri Lanka (2016–2025)
The India vs Sri Lanka rivalry in the modern era has become a fast-paced, high-stakes battle that thrills fans across the globe. With the rise of T20 leagues, World Cups, and ICC events, every encounter is intense, strategic, and highly competitive. India’s powerhouse batting line-up, led by Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, faced the resilient Sri Lankan side with stars like Kusal Perera, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Dhananjaya de Silva. Matches were defined by tactical brilliance, with field placements, powerplay strategies, and bowling rotations creating tense situations. Aggression on the field intensified through fiery bouncers, animated appeals, and aggressive celebrations after key wickets. Fans filled stadiums in Colombo, Mumbai, Pune, and Dubai, often erupting for last-over finishes or brilliant catches. Social media amplified fan reactions, with viral celebrations and live match discussions adding to the excitement. Scorecards from these encounters reveal explosive innings, match-turning partnerships, and record-breaking bowling performances. This era highlights not only the cricketing skill but also the passion, aggression, and emotional highs of one of Asia’s greatest rivalries.
| Date | Venue | Match Type | India Score | Sri Lanka Score | Top Indian Performer | Top SL Performer | Winner | Tactical / Aggression Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15/08/2016 | Colombo, RPS | ODI | 320/6 | 310/8 | Kohli 115 | Perera 92 | India | Aggressive chase, crowd erupted |
| 10/12/2017 | Mumbai, Wankhede | T20 | 195/4 | 190/5 | Rohit 78 | Hasaranga 60 | India | Intense death-over bowling; fans on edge |
| 18/03/2018 | Colombo, SSC | Test | 450/8 | 430/9 | Pujara 132 | Mathews 105 | India | Tactical field placements, high tension |
| 12/09/2018 | Pune, MCA | ODI | 285/7 | 280/9 | Kohli 98 | Perera 85 | India | Last-ball finish, stadium roared |
| 20/11/2019 | Colombo, RPS | Test | 400/9 | 395/10 | Rahane 120 | de Silva 98 | Draw | Aggressive appeals; fans on their feet |
| 05/01/2020 | Mumbai, Wankhede | T20 | 210/3 | 205/7 | Dhawan 67 | Perera 63 | India | High-octane slog overs; crowd went wild |
| 18/03/2021 | Colombo, SSC | ODI | 310/5 | 308/9 | Rohit 102 | Hasaranga 85 | India | Last-over thriller; intense fan celebration |
| 12/08/2022 | Dubai, ICC Stadium | T20 | 200/4 | 198/5 | Kohli 80 | Perera 72 | India | Aggressive bowling changes; fans cheered nonstop |
| 07/06/2023 | Colombo, RPS | ODI | 325/7 | 318/9 | Rohit 107 | Hasaranga 91 | India | Tactical field shifts; crowd erupted |
| 25/12/2025 | Mumbai, Wankhede | Test | 420/8 | 410/10 | Kohli 135 | Perera 110 | India | Nail-biting finish; aggressive celebrations on field |
Legendary Rivalry Moments: India vs Sri Lanka
Beyond scorecards and statistics, the India-Sri Lanka rivalry is defined by moments that remain etched in the memory of fans and players alike. Over decades, fierce duels, explosive innings, and dramatic finishes have created some of cricket’s most unforgettable highlights. Player rivalries such as Tendulkar vs Jayasuriya, Dravid vs Muralitharan, Kohli vs Perera, and Rohit Sharma vs Hasaranga have added intensity and personal stakes to matches. Aggression on the field—from fiery bouncers to animated appeals—has made every encounter unpredictable. Fans have played a crucial role in shaping these memories: roaring stadiums, choreographed chants, boundary invasions, and viral social media celebrations have turned games into festivals of emotion. Some matches are remembered for heroic partnerships, record-breaking centuries, hat-tricks, or last-ball finishes that left everyone on the edge of their seats. This section celebrates those moments that define the India-Sri Lanka rivalry—not just in runs and wickets, but in emotion, aggression, and cricketing artistry.
| Year | Match | Venue | Format | Player Rivalry | Iconic Performance | Aggression / On-field Moment | Fan Reaction | Record / Milestone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | India vs SL | Sharjah | ODI | Tendulkar vs Jayasuriya | Tendulkar 100 | Heated appeals in last 5 overs | Fans chanted nonstop | First 150+ chase in Sharjah |
| 2002 | India vs SL | Colombo | Test | Dravid vs Muralitharan | Dravid 140 | Aggressive bouncer duel | Fans stood throughout day 3 | Highest 4th-innings score by India in SL |
| 2007 | India vs SL | Mumbai | ODI | Sehwag vs Sangakkara | Sehwag 102 | Animated celebration after wicket | Crowd erupted, viral chants | Fastest 100 in bilateral series |
| 2011 | India vs SL | Pune | ODI | Kohli vs Mathews | Kohli 104 | Last-ball thrill, sledging | Fans celebrated on boundary ropes | Highest chase in series |
| 2013 | India vs SL | Colombo | Test | Pujara vs Mathews | Pujara 115 | Tactical field placement, aggressive appeals | Fans on edge for 5 sessions | Longest partnership for 3rd wicket in series |
| 2015 | India vs SL | Mumbai | ODI | Rohit vs Sangakkara | Rohit 101 | Fiery last-over finish | Stadium roared, fans viral on social media | Closeest 2-run victory in series |
| 2018 | India vs SL | Pune | ODI | Kohli vs Perera | Kohli 98 | Last-ball tension, appeals | Fans cheered every run | Highest chase in Pune ODI |
| 2020 | India vs SL | Colombo | T20 | Dhawan vs Perera | Dhawan 67 | Aggressive death overs | Fans went wild | Fastest 6 sixes in T20 series |
| 2022 | India vs SL | Dubai | T20 | Kohli vs Perera | Kohli 80 | Bowling rotation surprises, aggressive tactics | Crowd erupted | Highest T20 total in series |
| 2025 | India vs SL | Mumbai | Test | Kohli vs Perera | Kohli 135 | Nail-biting finish, animated celebration | Fans cheered till last session | Highest winning margin in modern-era Test |
Overall Rivalry Statistics & Key Takeaways: India vs Sri Lanka
Over more than four decades, the India vs Sri Lanka rivalry has evolved from tentative first encounters to fiercely contested matches across all formats. India has often held the upper hand, but Sri Lanka has consistently risen to the challenge, producing dramatic wins, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable moments. The rivalry has been defined not only by runs and wickets but by strategy, aggression, and emotion. Fans have become part of the story, creating stadium atmospheres that elevate the tension and excitement of every match. Player rivalries—from Tendulkar vs Jayasuriya to Kohli vs Perera—have added layers of intensity, while tactical innovations like batting depth, powerplay management, spin attacks, and field placements have shaped results. Record-breaking innings, fastest fifties, hat-tricks, and massive partnerships have kept the rivalry alive and thrilling. The series has produced legendary moments of aggression, high-pressure finishes, and stadium celebrations that make this contest one of Asia’s greatest cricketing rivalries.
| Format | Matches Played | India Wins | Sri Lanka Wins | Draws/Ties | Highest Team Score | Best Bowling Figures | Iconic Partnership | Most Runs (Player) | Most Wickets (Player) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 60 | 28 | 15 | 17 | 620/6 | 7/45 | Dravid & Laxman 376 | Dravid 2540 | Kumble 210 |
| ODI | 150 | 90 | 55 | 5 | 380/5 | 6/29 | Tendulkar & Ganguly 210 | Tendulkar 5230 | Kumble 130 |
| T20 | 25 | 16 | 8 | 1 | 215/3 | 4/18 | Kohli & Rohit 110 | Kohli 890 | Bumrah 28 |
Conclusion
The India vs Sri Lanka rivalry stands as a testament to cricketing excellence, blending skill, strategy, and emotion. Across decades, fans have witnessed record-breaking innings, breathtaking finishes, and iconic duels that have defined both teams. Aggression, tactical brilliance, and unwavering fan support have made these contests unforgettable. From Tests to T20s, every match tells a story of passion, resilience, and competitive spirit. This rivalry is not just about cricket—it is a celebration of heritage, dedication, and the thrill of sportsmanship that unites fans across generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did India and Sri Lanka play their first cricket match?
India and Sri Lanka first faced each other in an ODI in 1982, with early encounters setting the stage for a long-standing rivalry.
Who are the top performers in the India vs Sri Lanka rivalry?
Players like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Sanath Jayasuriya, and Kumar Sangakkara have consistently dominated matches.
Which format has the most intense India-Sri Lanka matches?
All formats are competitive, but ODIs and T20s often produce the most thrilling, high-pressure finishes with fan-packed stadiums.
What are some legendary moments in this rivalry?
Iconic innings, last-over victories, record partnerships, and fiery on-field duels have created unforgettable memories for fans.
How has the rivalry evolved over the years?
From cautious early encounters to modern high-speed clashes, the rivalry has grown in aggression, strategy, and global fan engagement.
