Since the T20 World Cup in 2020, India have always struggled up in the first six overs in the shortest format. While that has been a matter of concern, new Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur insisted on the same, stating that India always want to maximize the powerplay with the bat. 

India’s approach on Thursday was a struggle, with just 32 runs, losing both Smriti Mandhana and Sabbhineni Meghana cheaply. However, late flourish from Jemimah Rodrigues, a match-winning knock of 36 ensured that India won the first T20I in handsome fashion. 

“I think credit goes to all the players for the belief and the way Jemi batted and later on the bowlers did the job for us. As a unit we always want to utilize the first six overs and apart from that it went according to plan. We are really enjoying our time here and good to see people come and watch us play here,” Harmanpreet reflected on India’s win in Dambulla. 

Rodrigues, who was named as the Player of the Match, opined that the stark-similarity between the pitches in Dambulla and Mumbai helped her during her stay at the crease. 

“The pitches are similar to back home in Mumbai and I just applied myself, played my natural game. I love this country and it is a privilege for us to come and play some cricket here. Lot of support from the crowd and Sri Lankan cricket board as well," stated Jemimah. 

India take a 1-0 lead in the series, with an opportunity of completing the series win during the second T20I at the same venue, on Saturday (June 25).