Shamar Joseph and Jason Holder’s impressive fast bowling led West Indies to a seven-wicket victory against Sri Lanka in the first match of their three-match T20I series.
Sri Lanka chose to bat first at Sabina Park in Kingston, Jamaica, and started strong with 43 runs for the first wicket in 4.2 overs. However, Holder’s dismissal of Pathum Nissanka for 18 sparked a batting collapse for the visitors.
After adding just 22 runs, Sri Lanka lost three more wickets, with Joseph claiming the crucial wicket of captain Kusal Mendis. Mendis scored 36 off 23 balls, hitting two fours and three sixes, at a strike rate of 156.52.
Kamindu Mendis and former captain Dasun Shanaka tried to stabilize the innings, putting together a 59-run partnership for the fifth wicket. However, once Shanaka was out, it became hard for Sri Lanka to set a competitive total. Mendis finished with 51 runs off 39 balls, including four boundaries and two sixes, leading to a total of 147 runs.
Both Holder and Joseph took three wickets each, with Holder named Player of the Match for his figures of 3/18 at an economy rate of 4.50.
In response, West Indies started strong as Brandon King and Shai Hope put on 67 runs, disrupting Sri Lanka’s plans. Hope maintained composure and secured the win with an unbeaten 65 runs off 54 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes, sealing the victory with four balls remaining.
Wanindu Hasaranga was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, taking two wickets for 32 runs, dismissing King and Shimron Hetmyer.