Sri Lanka strike back as Hasaranga and Chameera level T20 Series

Sri Lanka responded emphatically after their opening defeat, producing a complete performance to defeat the West Indies by 37 runs and level the three-match T20 International series at Sabina Park.

After being asked to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a challenging 194 for six, powered by half-centuries from Kamil Mishara and Dasun Shanaka.

The visitors then turned the match into a one-sided contest with the ball, as Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera claimed three wickets each to restrict the West Indies to 157.

The series now heads into a decisive finale on Sunday, also at Sabina Park.

Mishara and Shanaka build Sri Lanka’s foundation

Sri Lanka’s innings gained momentum through a crucial partnership between Mishara and Shanaka.

Mishara anchored the effort with a composed unbeaten 61 from 40 deliveries, while Shanaka produced a rapid 58 from just 24 balls.

Together, they added 101 runs and transformed a solid start into a commanding total.

Their partnership gave Sri Lanka the platform needed to challenge a West Indies side that had edged the opening match with a dramatic finish.

Joseph provides late resistance

The West Indies bowling attack had moments of success, led by Shamar Joseph.

The fast bowler finished with impressive figures of 3-32 from his four overs, including a stunning final-ball delivery that sent Dunith Wellalage’s stumps flying.

But Sri Lanka’s late surge ensured they entered the second innings with a total that demanded an aggressive response.

Early damage puts West Indies under pressure

The chase began badly for the hosts.

The West Indies slipped to 9 for two during the early overs, immediately placing pressure on their middle order.

However, Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell rebuilt the innings with an 82-run partnership that briefly restored belief.

The pair attacked aggressively and appeared capable of changing the course of the match.

Then Sri Lanka found the breakthrough they needed.

Hasaranga turns the match

The turning point came in the 10th over.

Hetmyer, attempting a quick single, was run out after scoring 36 from 26 balls, ending the partnership at a critical moment.

Four deliveries later, Powell was dismissed by Maheesh Theekshana after contributing 43 from 26 balls.

The wicket was especially significant after Powell had been the hero in the first match, hitting the winning six in the final over to seal victory for West Indies.

This time, Sri Lanka refused to allow another late escape.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers close the door

Hasaranga then delivered the decisive blow.

The leg-spinner removed Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd in consecutive deliveries during the 13th over, leaving the West Indies struggling at 108 for six.

With the required rate climbing and wickets falling, the chase faded quickly.

Chameera completed the victory by dismissing Roston Chase for 17 early in the 19th over, finishing with outstanding figures of 3-9.

Series alive after Sri Lankan response

The win continued a strong limited-overs run for Sri Lanka, who had already taken the preceding ODI series 1-0 after the final two matches were washed out.

The visitors won the first ODI by 41 runs before rain prevented further action.

Now, with the T20 series tied at 1-1, everything rests on Sunday’s final match in Kingston.

Sri Lanka have momentum.

The West Indies have home advantage.

The decider promises another chapter in an increasingly competitive series.