‘Innings of Sri Lanka’s resurgence’ – Fans react as Pathum Nissanka becomes first Sri Lankan to score 200+ runs in an ODI innings

In a historic feat for Sri Lankan cricket, opener Pathum Nissanka etched his name in the record books. He became the first player from the country to achieve a double century in one-day internationals (ODIs). This remarkable milestone was attained during the first ODI of the series against Afghanistan in Pallekele. Nissanka delivered a breathtaking inning, remaining unbeaten at 210 off just 139 balls.

His monumental knock featured an impressive array of shots, including 20 fours and eight sixes, propelling Sri Lanka to a commanding total of 381/3. His innings rank as the fifth-highest individual score in ODI history, and he joins the elite group of batters who have carried the bat after scoring a double century.

Notably, Nissanka’s feat surpassed the long-standing record held by former Sri Lankan opener Sanath Jayasuriya, whose score of 189 against India stood for over 23 years. Jayasuriya took to social media to extend his congratulations, acknowledging Nissanka’s masterful batting display.

Pathum Nissanka made a resilient comeback

Returning after an illness that kept him out of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, Nissanka showcased incredible power-hitting prowess. His achievement is a personal triumph and elevates him to the top of Sri Lanka’s individual ODI scores, leaving an indelible mark in the country’s cricketing history.

Furthermore, Nissanka’s double century is now the third-fastest in ODI history, reaching the milestone in just 136 balls. This places him ahead of cricketing legends such as Chris Gayle, Virender Sehwag, and Sachin Tendulkar in terms of the pace at which he achieved the double century.

In the first ODI against Afghanistan, Nissanka formed a formidable 182-run partnership with Avishka Fernando (88), contributing significantly to the team’s total. Following his wicket, other batters, including captain Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Charitha Asalanka, maintained the momentum to secure a commanding victory. Nissanka’s extraordinary innings not only reshaped the records but also signalled a new era of power-hitting and achievement for Sri Lankan cricket.

The list of highest scores by Sri Lankans in ODIs now reads:

1. Pathum Nissanka: 210* vs Afghanistan, 2024
2. Sanath Jayasuriya: 189 vs India, 2000
3. Upul Tharanga: 174* vs India, 2013
4. Kumar Sangakkara: 169 vs South Africa, 2013
5. Tillakaratne Dilshan: 161* vs Bangladesh, 2015

Here is how fans react to Pathum Nissanka’s double century: