A 137-run partnership between Charith Asalanka and debutant Nishan Madushka helped Sri Lanka chase down a DLS-adjusted target of 232 to secure a comfortable win in the 1st ODI against West Indies in Pallekele.
Asalanka top-scored with 77 off 71 balls, while Madushka contributed 69 from 54 deliveries. Coming together at 45 for 3, the duo steered Sri Lanka out of a tricky situation. Despite their departures, Kamindu Mendis (30*) and Janith Liyanage (18*) finished the chase, giving Sri Lanka a 1-0 series lead.
West Indies struggled against Sri Lanka’s bowlers after rain cut their innings short at 185 for 4 in 38.3 overs. Sherfane Rutherford’s 85-run partnership with Roston Chase revived their innings before the rain hit, but Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling and tight fielding kept their target within reach.
Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie was the standout for West Indies, picking up 3 for 47, but the visitors’ overall bowling effort wasn’t enough to stop Sri Lanka.