After a dominant 3-0 sweep in the T20I series, India has hit a rough patch in the 3-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. They tied the first game and then suffered a defeat in the second. Gautam Gambhir's tenure as the ODI coach hasn't started smoothly, and the team is eager to finish the tour positively.

India's bowling has been their strength in both ODIs, restricting Sri Lanka to totals of 230 and 240. Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav have been key contributors, with Washington taking three wickets in the second ODI and Kuldeep consistently applying pressure. However, the batting lineup has been a concern. Rohit Sharma has provided explosive starts, scoring two quick fifties, but the middle order has failed to capitalize on his performances.

In the first ODI, India tied the game thanks to a late effort from Shivam Dube. Despite needing only one run to win with two wickets in hand, Dube and Arshdeep Singh were dismissed off consecutive deliveries, resulting in a dramatic tie. This game highlighted the fragility of the middle order and their inability to close out matches.

The second ODI saw another impressive start from Rohit Sharma, who scored 64 off 44 balls. His aggressive batting seemed to put India in a strong position, but once he was dismissed, the rest of the batting lineup crumbled. Jeffrey Vandersay's spin bowling was particularly effective, taking six wickets and dismantling India's chase. Axar Patel and Washington Sundar fought valiantly, but their efforts were in vain as India was bowled out for 208, losing by 32 runs.

India has experimented with their batting order in both ODIs, trying different combinations in an attempt to find stability. Axar Patel and Washington Sundar were promoted up the order, while KL Rahul batted lower than usual in the second game.

As they head into the final ODI, with the series on the line, it will be interesting to see if India continues to experiment or if they opt for a more settled lineup. The team needs to address their middle-order issues and find a way to support Rohit Sharma's starts. Ending the tour on a high note will be crucial for building momentum and confidence going forward.