Sri Lanka made an impressive start to their three match ODI series against West Indies, recording a 41 run victory at Sabina Park to take a 1-0 lead. A well balanced performance with both bat and ball helped the visitors overcome the home side despite challenging conditions that offered assistance to slower bowlers.
After being put in to bat, Sri Lanka recovered from a cautious start to post a competitive 303 for 7 in their 50 overs. The innings was built around an excellent knock from Kusal Mendis, who struck 72 runs from just 62 deliveries. His aggressive approach shifted the momentum after Sri Lanka had struggled to score freely in the opening overs.
Kusal found strong support from Pathum Nissanka, who anchored the innings with a patient 79. While the opener took time to settle and survived an early dropped catch, he gradually built his innings through smart running and timely boundaries. Together, Kusal and Nissanka added a crucial 136 runs for the second wicket, putting Sri Lanka firmly in command.
Following their departures, captain Charith Asalanka and Janith Liyanage ensured the scoring rate remained healthy. Asalanka contributed 45 from 44 balls, while Liyanage remained unbeaten on 44 from 29 deliveries. Their partnership of 64 runs added valuable momentum during the closing stages and pushed Sri Lanka beyond the 300 mark.
West Indies began their pursuit positively, racing to 50 without loss inside six overs. However, Sri Lanka gradually wrestled back control through disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. A direct hit from Liyanage removed John Campbell, providing the breakthrough that shifted the contest.
The spin duo of Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga then tightened the pressure during the middle overs. Theekshana was particularly effective, finishing with figures of 2 for 26 while regularly deceiving the batters with his variations. Hasaranga also played an important supporting role as the required scoring rate continued to rise.
West Indies captain Shai Hope fought hard with a well compiled 56 from 66 balls, but lacked lasting support from the rest of the batting order. Sri Lanka’s bowlers consistently struck at important moments and prevented any significant partnerships from developing.
Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera delivered the decisive blows, claiming 4 for 67 from his ten overs. His ability to mix pace and accuracy proved crucial as West Indies eventually finished on 262, falling 41 runs short of the target.
With a complete team display, Sri Lanka have taken an early advantage in the series and will head into the second ODI full of confidence.
