Pallekele: A commendable display from spinners, coupled with a commanding half-century from captain Charith Asalanka, contributed to Sri Lanka's victory in the second ODI of a three-match series against West Indies at Pallekele on Wednesday.
This triumph has secured Sri Lanka a commanding 2-0 lead over their opponents.
Sri Lanka was awarded the toss and elected to bat first. The Lankan spinners demonstrated their prowess early on, effectively attacking the West Indies batting line-up and validating their decision. Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, and pace bowler Asitha Fernando played a pivotal role in dismantling the West Indies team, reducing them to 58/8.
The West Indies managed to salvage some runs with contributions from Sherfane Rutherford (80 runs in 82 balls, including seven fours and four sixes) and Gudakesh Motie (50 runs in 61 balls, with six fours). Together, they put up a remarkable 119-run partnership for the ninth wicket. This partnership stands out as a highlight for Motie, marking his first ODI fifty. The West Indies team was ultimately dismissed for 189 runs in 36 overs, a game that was shortened due to inclement weather.
Hasaranga (4 wickets for 40 runs) and Theekshana (3 wickets for 25 runs) were among the wickets taken by the West Indies.
In the pursuit of victory in the run-chase of 190 runs, Sri Lanka faced early dismissals of Avishka Fernando and Kusal Mendis for minimal scores. However, a 62-run stand between Nishan Madushka (38 runs in 44 balls, with six fours) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (38 runs in 50 balls, with six fours) turned the tide in Sri Lanka's favor. A significant fifty from Asalanka, who remained unbeaten at 62 runs in 61 balls, with seven fours and a six, sealed the victory for Sri Lanka with 34 balls to spare.
Alzarri Joseph (2 wickets for 30 runs) and Motie (1 wicket for 18 runs) were among the wickets taken by the West Indies.
Theekshana was honored with the 'Player of the Match' award for his exceptional performance.
