Sri Lanka kept the T20I series alive with a convincing 37 run victory over West Indies at Sabina Park, drawing the contest 1-1 ahead of the decisive final match.
After being asked to bat, Sri Lanka found themselves under pressure at 88 for 4 during the middle stages of the innings. However, captain Dasun Shanaka and Kamil Mishara completely changed the momentum with a breathtaking partnership that transformed a modest total into a formidable one.
Mishara played the anchor role brilliantly while Shanaka launched a fierce assault on the West Indies attack. Together, they added 103 runs in just 42 deliveries, giving Sri Lanka the perfect finish. Shanaka was at his destructive best, smashing 58 from only 24 balls with five boundaries and several towering sixes. His half century came in just 19 deliveries, matching the fastest T20I fifty by a Sri Lankan batter.
At the other end, Mishara showed excellent composure. Having arrived early in the innings, he absorbed pressure when wickets were falling and accelerated expertly in the closing overs. The left hander remained unbeaten on 61 from 40 balls, ensuring Sri Lanka posted an impressive 194 for 6 from their 20 overs.
West Indies began their chase positively despite losing two wickets inside the opening ten deliveries. Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell rebuilt confidently, putting together an entertaining stand worth 81 runs from only 47 balls. Their aggressive stroke play kept the hosts firmly in the contest and they appeared well positioned at 89 for 2.
The turning point came through sharp fielding. Pavan Rathnayake’s direct hit resulted in a crucial run out, breaking the dangerous partnership and opening the door for Sri Lanka’s bowlers.
From there, the visitors tightened their grip. Maheesh Theekshana removed Powell, while Wanindu Hasaranga produced another match changing spell. His variations troubled the middle order as he dismissed Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd in quick succession.
Dunith Wellalage also contributed with key breakthroughs, while Dushmantha Chameera delivered an outstanding performance throughout the innings. Having struck early with the new ball, the fast bowler returned later to finish with remarkable figures of 3 for 9.
West Indies never recovered from the collapse and were eventually bowled out for 157. Hasaranga and Chameera claimed three wickets each as Sri Lanka completed a comprehensive victory, setting up a winner takes all showdown in the series finale.
