“West Indies stayed patient in the chase and took control when the game opened up”
West Indies secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the opening match of the T20 series.
Sri Lanka, batting first after losing the toss, posted 147/9 in their 20 overs. Captain Kusal Mendis scored 36 runs, while Kamindu Mendis was the top scorer with a solid 51 off 38 balls. Dasun Shanaka and Pathum Nissanka also contributed but Sri Lanka struggled to build big partnerships. In bowling, Wanindu Hasaranga took 2 wickets, while Eshan Malinga added 1.
In response, West Indies chased down the target in 19.2 overs, finishing on 149/3. Shai Hope led the chase with a match-winning unbeaten 65 off 54 balls, while Brandon King added 37 runs. Shimron Hetmyer and Roston Chase supported with quick contributions to finish the game.
With the ball, Jason Holder and Shamar Joseph were the key performers, both taking 3 wickets each, putting Sri Lanka under pressure early in the innings.
West Indies sealed the win with a six, taking a 1–0 lead in the T20 series.