Pathan brothers steal dramatic victory for India

Brothers Irfan and Yusuf Pathan combined for 59 runs off 25 balls Tuesday to guide India to a three-wicket win against Sri Lanka in a Twenty20 international.

India started slowly as it chased Sri Lanka's 171-4, losing two wickets for 14 runs before recovering quickly thanks to a 67-run third-wicket partnership between Suresh Raina (35) and Yuvraj Singh (32).

But the introduction of leg spinner Malinga Bandara resulted in four quick wickets falling for 16 runs as India was reduced to 115-7, with only the Pathan brothers left as recognized batsmen.

Irfan cracked an unbeaten 33 off 16 balls hitting two fours and two sixes while Yusuf made 22 not out, including a four and two sixes, to secure the win.

Sri Lanka captain Tillakaratne Dilshan had won the toss and elected to bat first in the maiden Twenty20 game at Colombo's R.Premadasa Stadium.

Dilshan top scored for the home side with 61 runs off 47 balls, including seven boundaries and a six. He shared 59 runs for the first wicket with Sanath Jayasuriya (33) and provided a good platform for Sri Lanka.

Bandara had the best performance of the Sri Lankan bowlers with three wickets for 32 runs.

Yusuf was named player of the match for his match-winning runs and two wickets.