West Indies tour of Sri Lanka (First ODI)
Sri Lanka secured a convincing five-wicket victory over the West Indies in the rain-affected first ODI at Pallekele yesterday, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Skipper Charith Asalanka led from the front with a solid 77, while debutant Nishan Madushka contributed a vital 69.
Earlier after opting to bat first, Sherfane Rutherford anchored the West Indies innings with an unbeaten 74, helping them reach 185 for 4 in 38.3 overs before rain interrupted play.
The Sri Lankan bowlers, led by a spin-heavy attack, initially contained the West Indies, with Wanindu Hasaranga claiming two quick wickets. Rutherford’s innings featured three sixes and five fours off 82 balls, pushing the West Indies to a competitive total.
Chasing a revised target of 232 runs in 37 overs, Sri Lanka faced an early setback, losing three wickets for just 45 runs. However, Asalanka’s partnership with Madushka turned the game around. Madushka scored 69 off 54 balls, striking seven fours and a six, before being dismissed by Gudakesh Motie. The pair built a crucial 137-run stand in just 109 deliveries for the fourth wicket.
Asalanka was eventually trapped lbw by Motie after scoring 77 off 71 balls, which included eight fours and three sixes. Despite his dismissal, Sri Lanka remained in control. Kamindu Mendis (30 not out) and Janith Liyanage (18 not out) finished the innings smoothly, adding an unbeaten 47 runs for the sixth wicket, with Mendis hitting a six to seal the win.