Asia Cup, Karachi:
Sri Lanka 273 beat India 173 by 100 runs

Sanath Jayasuriya hit a sparkling century and Ajantha Mendis claimed six wickets as Sri Lanka beat India by 100 runs in the Asia Cup final.

Jayasuria proved the lynchpin of Sri Lanka's 273 all out batting first, smashing a brutal 125 off 114 balls, including nine fours and five sixes.

Tillakaratne Dilshan also hit 56, with Ishant Smarma taking 3-52 for India.

Virender Sehwag hit a brisk 60 in reply, but India collapsed to 173 all out with Mendis taking 6-13.

The spinner's haul came off eight overs, having been introduced as early as the 10th over as Sri Lanka attempted to halt a threatening innings from Sehwag.

The opener had blasted 12 hours in his 36-ball knock, but when he fell stumped to Mendis India's batting line-up fell apart.

Mahendra Dhoni contributed 49 from 74 balls in an attempt to hold the innings together, but it was a futile effort as Sri Lanka bowled them out inside 40 overs to ease to victory.

Earlier, Dhoni had raised eyebrows by asking the defending champions to bat first, a decision which seemed even more surprising as India named only four specialist bowlers in the final XI.

But that decision appeared to be vindicated when Sharma produced a fiery opening spell to leave Sri Lanka teetering on 66-4.

However, Jayasuriya - who was dropped on 56 off a lofted short-arm pull - took the game away from India with an explosive innings to inspire Sri Lanka to an impressive win.

60% Better Betting Odds at Pinnaclesports.com - Bet now!