West Indies secured a comfortable five-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the first T20I of the three-match series, held at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. With this victory, the West Indies took a 1-0 lead in the series.
Sri Lanka Post 179/7 in 20 Overs
After being asked to bat first, Sri Lanka put up a competitive total of 179/7, with captain Charith Asalanka (59 off 35 balls) and Kamindu Mendis (51 off 40 balls) contributing crucial half-centuries. Despite losing wickets early, with openers Pathum Nissanka (11 off 10) and Kusal Perera (6 off 3) departing cheaply, Sri Lanka rebuilt their innings through a significant 82-run partnership between Asalanka and Mendis.
Sri Lanka struggled initially as Nissanka edged Romario Shepherd to Shai Hope, and Perera lost his stumps to Shamar Joseph (2/39). Kusal Mendis (20 off 16) started aggressively but was bowled by Gudakesh Motie. It was the middle-order rescue by Asalanka and Kamindu that propelled the home team to a respectable total.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa (17 off 11) played a quick cameo to push the score further.
West Indies Chase Down the Target in 19.1 Overs
Chasing 180, the West Indies openers, Brandon King (63 off 33) and Evin Lewis (50 off 28), put up a massive 107-run partnership in just 55 balls, providing a solid platform for their team. Although Sri Lanka fought back by dismissing both set batsmen and Shai Hope (7 off 6) in quick succession, the West Indies kept the required run rate under control.
Handy contributions from Roston Chase (19 off 16), Rovman Powell (13 off 18), and Sherfane Rutherford (14* off 12) ensured that the visitors reached the target in 19.1 overs. Matheesha Pathirana (2/27) was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, but his efforts weren’t enough to prevent the West Indies from clinching the win.
Sri Lanka to Regroup Ahead of Second T20I
After this loss, Sri Lanka will aim to bounce back in the second T20I, scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, at the same venue.