Kingston, June 12: The West Indies secured a convincing victory against Sri Lanka in the first T20 International match, winning by seven wickets. Chasing a target of 148 runs set by Sri Lanka, the Caribbean team reached their goal in just 19.2 overs, losing only three wickets in the process.
The West Indies started strong, with captain Shai Hope and Brandon King forming a solid partnership. They scored 67 runs for the first wicket in just 6.2 overs. King played a remarkable innings, scoring 37 runs off 22 balls, including two fours and three sixes. Shimron Hetmyer, who came in at number three, began well but fell to Wanindu Hasaranga after making 17 runs off nine balls.
Captain Hope showcased his leadership with a stellar performance, scoring 65 runs off 54 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes. Roston Chase contributed 16 runs from 26 balls, while Rovman Powell remained unbeaten with 10 runs off six balls. Wanindu Hasaranga was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, taking two wickets.
Earlier, Sri Lanka batted first and managed to score 147 runs, losing nine wickets in their 20 overs. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis provided a steady start, adding 41 runs for the first wicket. Nissanka scored 18 runs before being dismissed, while Mendis faced 23 balls to score 36 runs.
Lasith Croospulle was dismissed by Jason Holder without scoring, and Pawan Ratnayake added only four runs. Despite losing wickets at one end, Kamindu Mendis stood firm, scoring a valuable 51 runs off 39 balls, including four fours and two sixes. Dasun Shanaka chipped in with 22 runs.
For the West Indies, Jason Holder and Shermon Joseph delivered impressive bowling performances. Holder took three wickets for just 18 runs in four overs, while Joseph dismissed three Sri Lankan batsmen for 29 runs. Roston Chase also claimed one wicket. With this victory, the West Indies lead the three-match series 1-0.
Leave a Comment