DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka (AFP) — Sri Lanka celebrated a historic triumph as they defeated the West Indies by nine wickets in the final T20 match, clinching their first-ever T20 series victory against the Caribbean team. Kusal Mendis emerged as the star performer, finishing with a commendable 68 runs, leading the chase to a successful conclusion.
Chasing a target of 163 runs, the Sri Lankan side accomplished their goal with 12 balls to spare, delighting the packed crowd at Dambulla. Mendis expressed his joy post-match, stating, “I’m thrilled to have played my part in this victory. It wasn’t the easiest pitch, but we adapted well.”
The West Indies, who had opted to bat first, faced an uphill battle after a rocky start left them struggling at 68 for 5. However, captain Rovman Powell and Gudakesh Motie revived their innings with a quick 54-run partnership, featuring explosive hitting from Motie, who struck three sixes and a four in one over. Despite their efforts, the West Indies finished with a total that ultimately proved insufficient.
Mendis, along with his opening partner Pathum Nissanka, gave Sri Lanka a flying start, putting on a brisk 60 runs in just over five overs. Nissanka contributed a quick 39 runs off 22 balls before he fell to a low delivery from Motie. Mendis continued to build momentum, expertly driving the spinners and pulling seamers throughout his innings.
Kusal Perera joined Mendis at the crease, and the duo formed an impressive partnership, amassing 106 runs without losing their wicket. Perera finished the match with a solid 55 runs off 36 balls, showcasing his determination as he battled through cramps to reach his milestone.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers, particularly the spin duo of Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga, played a crucial role in restricting the West Indies to a modest total, each taking two wickets. Powell acknowledged the superiority of Sri Lankan spinners, admitting, “We knew spin would be pivotal, and Sri Lanka’s bowlers outperformed us.”
The series opened with a West Indies victory, but Sri Lanka bounced back decisively with a 73-run win in the second match. This series triumph is a significant achievement for the team under new head coach Sanath Jayasuriya, coming on the heels of an ODI series win against India and a Test win in England—both landmark successes for Sri Lankan cricket.
With this T20 series win, Sri Lanka looks poised for a bright future as they continue to build on their recent successes.
