India vs Sri Lanka series, 1st T20I: After triumph vs Australia, MS Dhoni & Co get a reality check

Pune: The Indian cricket team was brimming with confidence post a 3-0 T20I series whitewash against Australia on their home soil.

But on Tuesday, the MS Dhoni-led squad got a reality check when they were hammered by an inexperienced Sri Lankan squad at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

The defeat came as a huge shock for the Men in Blue and also for the Indian fans who weren't expecting a contest from Dinesh Chandimal and his boys, as the team comprised fresh faces and debutants.

But on a green top, the Lankan pacers kept Indian batsmen on their toes right throughout the innings and bowled them out for just 101 runs. The visitors' batsmen capitalised on the good start of their bowlers by chasing down the paltry total in 18. 5 overs.

Since it's a three-match series, the 2nd T20I, scheduled to be played at JSCA International Cricket Stadium has now become a must-win game for the hosts.

Dhoni will once again have to rise to the occasion as he cannot afford another series loss, especially in his home town Ranchi.