On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, Sri Lanka pulled off a sensational 73-run win over the West Indies in the 2nd T20I of their 3-match series, leveling the series at 1-1. The Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium was the stage for this remarkable performance, where Sri Lanka’s spin attack held the West Indies in check, securing a crucial win before the series decider.
Sri Lanka’s Stellar Batting Performance
Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat first on a pitch that provided plenty of turn, a decision that proved to be a masterstroke. Opening batsman Pathum Nissanka was in sublime form, scoring 54 runs off 49 balls. His innings included 9 boundaries and was the anchor of Sri Lanka’s innings. He received valuable support from Kusal Mendis, who contributed 26 runs, including a crucial six, while Kusal Perera added 24 runs before falling to a LBW decision.
Charith Asalanka, the Sri Lankan captain, put in a brief but effective cameo, scoring 9 runs off 7 balls, while Kamindu Mendis added 19 runs off 14 balls to help Sri Lanka set a competitive total of 162/5 in their 20 overs. The late surge from Wanindu Hasaranga (5 off 2) and Bhanuka Rajapaksa (5 off 7) sealed the innings with a challenging total.
West Indies in Trouble from the Start
When the West Indies came out to bat, the spin-friendly surface at Dambulla quickly proved to be their undoing. The West Indies never got going in their chase, with Dunith Wellalage taking the spotlight on his T20I debut. The young spinner shone brightly, picking up 3 wickets for just 9 runs in 4 overs, including the key dismissals of Brandon King, Evin Lewis, and Andre Fletcher. Wellalage’s disciplined and clinical bowling, along with Sri Lanka’s potent spin attack, dismantled the West Indies’ top order.
The Spin Dominance
Sri Lanka’s spinners Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Charith Asalanka complemented Wellalage’s brilliance. Hasaranga picked up 2 wickets for 32 runs, while Theekshana delivered a tight spell, claiming 2 wickets for 7 runs in just 3.1 overs. Together, they restricted the West Indies to 89 runs all out in 16.1 overs, with Rovman Powell the only bright spark, managing to score 20 runs in an otherwise dismal chase.
The spin dominance was clear from the start, with Sri Lanka’s bowlers taking 9 wickets for 89 runs, making it impossible for the West Indies to mount a serious challenge. This match highlighted the importance of spin in Dambulla, a venue where turning conditions were perfectly suited to Sri Lanka’s tactics.
Series Decider Looms Large
With the series now leveled 1-1, all eyes will be on the final T20I, set to take place at the same venue, where the series winner will be decided. Both teams will be looking to make their mark, but Sri Lanka, with their formidable spin attack and standout performances from debutant Wellalage, will enter as favorites.
Match Details:
Match: 2nd T20I, West Indies vs. Sri Lanka
Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla
Result: Sri Lanka won by 73 runs
Sri Lanka’s Score: 162/5 (20 overs)
West Indies’ Score: 89 all out (16.1 overs)
Player of the Match: Pathum Nissanka 54 (49)
Stay tuned for the thrilling series decider! Will Sri Lanka continue their winning form, or will the West Indies bounce back?
𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞, 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥!
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