Sri Lanka kicked off their ODI series against the West Indies with an impressive six-wicket victory, thanks to stellar performances from Nishan Madushka and Charith Asalanka. Both players hit crucial half-centuries, guiding Sri Lanka to a comfortable win and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Despite a brave effort from West Indies’ Sherfane Rutherford and some sharp bowling by Gudakesh Motie, the visitors couldn’t match Sri Lanka’s power-packed middle order.
Sri Lanka’s Dominance in the Chase
Chasing a rain-affected target of 234, Sri Lanka made their intentions clear from the start. Nishan Madushka, stepping in for the injured Pathum Nissanka, grabbed the opportunity with both hands. His 69 off just 54 balls was a statement of intent, filled with confidence and aggression. Madushka’s innings included seven boundaries and a six, showing his flair and adaptability in international cricket.
Partnering with the ever-reliable Charith Asalanka, who top-scored with 77 from 71 balls, Madushka ensured Sri Lanka’s chase was never in doubt. Their partnership was the turning point in the match, stabilizing the innings after an early wicket and propelling Sri Lanka toward victory. Asalanka, known for his calm under pressure, praised Madushka’s effort post-match, stating, “I’m glad he grabbed the opportunity with both hands. Healthy competition within the team is always good.”
West Indies’ Struggles and Brief Resurgence
The West Indies’ innings, hampered by rain, saw them post 183/4 in 38.3 overs before the weather interrupted the game. Captain Shai Hope acknowledged the tough conditions, particularly for his spinners, due to the wet ball. Despite these challenges, Sherfane Rutherford put on an impressive show with an unbeaten 74 off 66 balls, offering some hope for the visitors. Along with Roston Chase, who contributed 36, Rutherford pushed the West Indies to a competitive total after a slow start.
Sri Lanka’s spinners, however, kept a firm grip on the game. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga once again proved why they are a force to be reckoned with in white-ball cricket. Their disciplined bowling stifled the West Indies’ top order, preventing them from building any substantial partnerships early on. Rutherford’s resistance and his 85-run partnership with Chase provided the only real highlights for the visitors.
Motie’s Effort in Vain
Gudakesh Motie’s bowling was the shining light for the West Indies, as he managed to pick up three crucial wickets, including the dismissals of both Asalanka and Madushka. Motie’s figures of 3/43 gave the West Indies a glimmer of hope, especially when he broke the vital partnership between the two Sri Lankan batsmen. His clever use of flight and turn caught Madushka off guard, with Brandon King taking a sharp catch at slip. He then trapped Asalanka leg before wicket, temporarily halting Sri Lanka’s march towards victory.
But despite Motie’s efforts, Sri Lanka’s middle order remained composed. Kamindu Mendis (21) and Janith Liyanage (18) steadied the ship and saw their team home with ease, leaving 14 balls to spare.
Sri Lanka’s Spinners Take Control
The turning point in the match arguably came earlier when Sri Lanka’s spinners took control of the game. Theekshana and Hasaranga’s probing spells kept the West Indies’ batsmen under pressure. Their ability to extract turn and bounce from the pitch limited the flow of runs, restricting West Indies to a total that was always going to be difficult to defend, especially on a pitch that became more favorable for batting after the rain.
A Look Ahead
With this win, Sri Lanka will look to wrap up the series in the next two ODIs. They’ve built significant momentum following their T20 series win over the West Indies and will want to carry this form through to the remaining matches. As for the West Indies, they will need to regroup quickly. With two more ODIs on the horizon, they must find a way to counter Sri Lanka’s potent bowling attack and improve their middle-order stability.
FAQs
Charith Asalanka top-scored for Sri Lanka with 77 runs off 71 balls.
Gudakesh Motie took 3 wickets for 43 runs.
Sherfane Rutherford scored an unbeaten 74 off 66 balls, anchoring the West Indies innings.
Nishan Madushka scored 69 off 54 balls, playing a key role in Sri Lanka’s successful chase.
Sri Lanka leads the series 1-0, with the second ODI scheduled for Wednesday.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s victory in the first ODI against the West Indies was a well-rounded team effort. Madushka’s blazing 69, Asalanka’s controlled 77, and the effectiveness of their spinners all contributed to a dominant performance. While the West Indies showed flashes of brilliance, particularly through Sherfane Rutherford and Gudakesh Motie, they fell short in the face of Sri Lanka’s all-around strength. The hosts now hold a 1-0 lead in the series, with two more games to go, as they aim to secure a series victory.
