Sri Lanka secured a 41-run victory over West Indies at Sabina Park, posting 303/7 before bowling the hosts out for 262 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Mendis and Nissanka Lay the Foundation
After being put in to bat, Sri Lanka recovered from an early setback to build a strong total. Kusal Mendis led the charge with 72 off 62 balls, while Pathum Nissanka top-scored with 79. Their 136-run partnership for the second wicket put Sri Lanka in control after a cautious start.
West Indies initially kept things tight, with Jayden Seales removing Kamindu Mendis early and restricting Sri Lanka to 32 in the powerplay. However, Kusal accelerated the scoring, particularly against Gudakesh Motie, hitting four sixes in quick succession and reaching his half-century off 42 balls.
Nissanka, despite a slower start, anchored the innings and reached his fifty in 71 balls before being dismissed for 79. In the latter stages, Charith Asalanka (45 off 44) and Janith Liyanage (44* off 29) added crucial runs, combining for a 64-run stand that pushed Sri Lanka past 300.
For West Indies, Matthew Forde and Roston Chase picked up two wickets each.
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West Indies Start Well but Lose Momentum
Chasing 304, West Indies began aggressively, reaching 50 without loss in six overs. However, a sharp run-out ended John Campbell’s innings, and Justin Greaves was bowled soon after, halting the early momentum.
Captain Shai Hope held the innings together with 56 from 66 balls, while Greaves (45) also contributed. Despite these efforts, West Indies failed to build substantial partnerships through the middle overs.
Sri Lanka Bowlers Seal the Win
Sri Lanka’s bowlers maintained pressure, particularly through their spinners. Maheesh Theekshana returned figures of 2/26, troubling batters with his variations, while Wanindu Hasaranga picked up 1/43.
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Dushmantha Chameera led the pace attack with 4/67, striking at key moments to keep West Indies in check. From 167/5, the required rate climbed steadily, and the hosts were unable to recover.
After a brief interruption for bad light in the 49th over, West Indies resumed but lost their final wicket with four balls remaining, finishing on 262.
Sri Lanka Take Series Advantage
Sri Lanka’s balanced performance with both bat and ball proved decisive, as they took control of the series with a comprehensive win.
