DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka — Sri Lanka produced a stunning performance to level the three-match T20 series against the West Indies with a commanding 73-run victory on Tuesday, their largest margin of victory over the Caribbean side in T20 internationals.
This dominant display at Dambulla also marked Sri Lanka’s sixth-largest T20 win overall. After setting a competitive target of 163, Sri Lanka’s spin attack decimated the West Indies, bowling them out for a paltry 89 in just 16.1 overs — the West Indies’ lowest ever total against Sri Lanka in T20s and their sixth lowest in the format.
Debutant all-rounder Dunith Wellalage was the standout performer for Sri Lanka, taking 3-9 from his four overs, as West Indies crumbled under relentless pressure. Wellalage’s bowling efforts were supported by Maheesh Theekshana, Charith Asalanka, and Wanindu Hasaranga, who took two wickets each. Sri Lanka’s spinners bowled 13.1 of the 16 overs, with only three overs of pace, perfectly exploiting the deteriorating pitch conditions.
A 72-run opening stand
Sri Lanka’s innings was anchored by opener Pathum Nissanka, who top-scored with 54 off 49 balls in a 72-run opening stand with Kusal Mendis (24). Nissanka’s innings featured nine boundaries, helping Sri Lanka post 162, a total that proved far too much for the West Indies on a challenging surface.
West Indies’ batsmen struggled from the outset, with Wellalage striking early to dismiss both Brandon King and Roston Chase, leaving the visitors reeling at 17-3. Only Johnson Charles (23) offered any resistance as wickets continued to tumble, with the West Indies managing just 21 runs at the end of the powerplay.
Despite tight bowling spells from West Indies’ spinners Roston Chase and Gudakesh Motie, who conceded just 37 runs in eight overs, Sri Lanka’s total proved insurmountable.
The series is now tied 1-1, setting up a thrilling decider on Thursday at Dambulla, where Sri Lanka, ranked eighth, will look to upset third-ranked West Indies and claim the series.
