Introduction: Sri Lanka National Cricket Team vs India National Cricket Team Timeline
When it comes to cricket in Asia, few matchups are as exciting as Sri Lanka vs India. These two teams have faced each other many times over the years, and every time they play, fans from both countries and around the world get thrilled. From big finals to nail-biting last-over finishes, this rivalry has given us countless cricketing memories.
In this article, we’ll explore the timeline of matches between the Sri Lanka and India national cricket teams, look at their biggest moments, and go through some interesting facts and stats — all in easy-to-understand words and a friendly tone.
Table of Contents
A Quick Look at the Rivalry
The Sri Lanka vs India cricket rivalry began in the late 1970s and has grown stronger over the years. Both teams have played many matches across different formats — Tests, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals (T20Is). The matches are always full of excitement, whether they are played in India, Sri Lanka, or other parts of the world.
Sri Lanka vs India: Timeline of Key Matches
Here is a timeline of some of the most important matches between the two teams over the years:
| Year | Format | Match Details | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1979 | ODI | First-ever match at World Cup | India won |
| 1985 | Test | First Test win for Sri Lanka vs India | Sri Lanka won |
| 1996 | ODI | World Cup Semi-Final | Sri Lanka won |
| 2002 | ODI | Champions Trophy Final (shared title) | Match tied |
| 2007 | ODI | India tour of Sri Lanka | India won series |
| 2009 | T20I | First-ever T20 between the two | India won |
| 2010 | Test | Sri Lanka’s highest Test score vs India | Match drawn |
| 2011 | ODI | World Cup Final | India won |
| 2017 | Test | India clean sweep 3-0 in Sri Lanka | India dominated |
| 2021 | ODI/T20 | India sends a young squad to Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka won T20 series |
| 2023 | ODI | Asia Cup Final | India won by 10 wickets |
| 2024 | T20 | India tour of Sri Lanka | Series tied 1-1 |
Head-to-Head Record
Let’s break it down format-wise.
Test Matches
- Total Matches Played: 46
- India Wins: 22
- Sri Lanka Wins: 7
- Draws: 17
India has a stronger record in Tests, especially at home.
One Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Total Matches Played: 166
- India Wins: 98
- Sri Lanka Wins: 57
- No Result: 11
ODIs are where the rivalry truly shines, with many close matches.
T20 Internationals
- Total Matches Played: 29
- India Wins: 19
- Sri Lanka Wins: 9
- No Result: 1
India has been very dominant in the T20 format.
Memorable Moments Between the Teams
1996 World Cup Semi-Final
This was a huge moment for Sri Lanka. They beat India in the semi-final and later went on to win their first-ever World Cup. The match was played in Kolkata and ended with a crowd disturbance, but it marked Sri Lanka’s rise in world cricket.
🇮🇳 2011 World Cup Final
India lifted the World Cup for the second time in front of a home crowd in Mumbai. Sri Lanka put up a good score, but India chased it down with MS Dhoni hitting the winning six. This match is remembered by every Indian fan.
2002 Champions Trophy Final
This was the only major ICC final that was shared. Rain spoiled the party twice, and both India and Sri Lanka were declared joint winners. It’s rare and still talked about in cricket history.
2023 Asia Cup Final
India bowled out Sri Lanka for just 50 runs and chased the target in just 6.1 overs — one of the most one-sided finals ever. Mohammed Siraj took 6 wickets in a magical spell. This was a proud moment for Indian fast bowling.
Famous Players from Both Teams
India
- Sachin Tendulkar – Scored many runs against Sri Lanka and loved by fans everywhere.
- MS Dhoni – Calm captain, led India to a World Cup win in 2011.
- Virat Kohli – Has scored many centuries vs Sri Lanka.
- Rohit Sharma – Holds the record for highest individual score (264) in ODIs, made against Sri Lanka.
- Jasprit Bumrah – A top bowler who has troubled Sri Lankan batsmen.
Sri Lanka
- Sanath Jayasuriya – Known for attacking batting, especially vs India.
- Muttiah Muralitharan – The highest wicket-taker in Tests, took many wickets against India.
- Kumar Sangakkara – Classy left-handed batsman and great wicketkeeper.
- Mahela Jayawardene – Stylish batsman with many big scores vs India.
- Lasith Malinga – Fast bowler famous for yorkers, and always a threat to Indian batsmen.
Why Fans Love This Rivalry
- Both teams have great history and passionate fans.
- The matches are usually high-scoring and full of drama.
- India and Sri Lanka have played in many finals and important matches.
- There is mutual respect but also a competitive spirit.
Recent Form and What’s Next
Recent Matches (2023–2024)
- India has been in strong form, especially in ODIs.
- Sri Lanka is rebuilding with some young talent.
- Both teams are preparing for the next T20 World Cup.
Upcoming Series
Cricket boards of both countries have confirmed more series between 2025 and 2026, including Tests and limited-overs games. The next time they meet, fans can expect another exciting chapter in this long cricket story.
Interesting Facts
- India vs Sri Lanka is one of the most played ODI matchups in cricket history.
- Rohit Sharma’s 264 vs Sri Lanka in 2014 is the highest score in ODI history.
- Muralitharan’s 8-wicket haul against India in 2001 is still remembered.
- In 2021, due to COVID-19 issues, India played with a second-string team, and Sri Lanka took full advantage.
Final Thoughts
The India vs Sri Lanka cricket rivalry is not just about numbers — it’s about passion, pride, and unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a thrilling chase or a stunning bowling performance, matches between these two countries are always worth watching.
