West Indies strengthened their position in Group 2 with a third consecutive victory, defeating Sri Lanka by five wickets in Bristol. The win lifted them level on points with England, sitting just behind the hosts on net run rate, while Sri Lanka’s hopes of reaching the next stage suffered a major setback.
The Caribbean side laid the foundation for victory with an outstanding bowling performance, particularly during the opening six overs. After choosing to field first, they immediately put Sri Lanka under pressure and reduced them to 24 for 4 inside the powerplay. Captain Hayley Matthews led the charge with a superb spell, finishing with figures of 3 for 15.
Matthews struck early to dismantle the Sri Lankan top order. Vishmi Gunaratne departed after offering a simple chance, while skipper Chamari Athapaththu fell attempting an aggressive shot. Harshitha Samarawickrama was also dismissed cheaply as West Indies seized complete control of the contest.
Sri Lanka never fully recovered from that difficult start. Although Nilakshika de Silva produced a fighting knock of 30 from 26 deliveries, meaningful partnerships were hard to come by. Her contributions alongside Kavisha Dilhari and Kawya Kavindi briefly steadied the innings, but regular wickets prevented any sustained momentum. Once Nilakshika was dismissed, Sri Lanka’s scoring rate dropped significantly and they were eventually bowled out for 98 with two deliveries remaining.
The West Indies spin attack proved decisive throughout the innings. Ashmini Munisar and Karishma Ramharack provided valuable support to Matthews as seven of Sri Lanka’s ten wickets fell to spin bowling.
Chasing a modest target, West Indies made a positive start through Matthews and Deandra Dottin, who added 28 runs for the opening wicket. However, Sri Lanka fought back admirably and reduced their opponents from 36 for 2 to 70 for 5, creating a hint of tension.
Despite the mini collapse, veteran batter Stafanie Taylor demonstrated why her experience remains so valuable. Remaining composed under pressure, she rotated the strike effectively and avoided unnecessary risks. Her unbeaten innings ensured there would be no dramatic turnaround. Taylor also struck the only six of the match and fittingly hit the winning runs to complete the chase.
Sri Lanka’s efforts were undermined by costly mistakes in the field. Three dropped catches and 23 extras, including 13 wides, handed West Indies valuable opportunities that proved decisive in a low scoring encounter.
In the end, disciplined bowling, smart use of spin and Taylor’s calm finishing touch helped West Indies secure another important victory and maintain their impressive run in the tournament.
