Dambulla: The remarkable half-century contributions from Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera were instrumental in securing a nine-wicket victory for Sri Lanka over the West Indies in the third and concluding T20I match at Dambulla on Thursday.
This triumph marked a significant comeback for Sri Lanka, clinching the series victory by a narrow margin of two-one, following their initial defeat by five wickets in the first match.
Upon winning the toss, the West Indies chose to bat.
The spin trio of Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Charith Asalanka played a pivotal role in the match, effectively reducing the West Indies to 62/5 in just 11.1 overs. The West Indies' batting performance was somewhat sluggish, with the 'Men in Maroon' scoring 42/2 in just six overs.
Sri Lanka's captain, Rovman Powell, scored 37 runs from 27 deliveries, including four sixes, while Gudakesh Motie contributed 32 runs from 15 balls, also hitting three sixes. Their partnership of 54 runs for the sixth wicket was a significant factor in Sri Lanka's victory.
Romario Shepherd also made a notable contribution with 18 runs in 13 balls, including a four and a six, pushing the West Indies to 162/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Theekshana and Hasaranga were the standout bowlers for Sri Lanka, taking two wickets each.
In the chase for 163 runs, Sri Lanka managed to put together a 60-run partnership for the first wicket, with Pathum Nissanka scoring 39 runs from 22 balls, including seven fours and a six. Mendis and Perera then led Sri Lanka to a decisive victory, securing the win with nine wickets remaining and two overs to spare.
Gudakesh Motie was the sole wicket-taker for the West Indies.
