Sri Lanka vs West Indies, 3rd T20 Highlights | SL vs WI | Sri Lanka Clinch Series with Dominant 9-Wicket Victory

Courtesy: Sony LIV

In the third and deciding T20I of the series, Sri Lanka outclassed the West Indies to secure a 9-wicket win and take the series 2-1. Chasing 163, Sri Lanka reached their target comfortably in just 18 overs, powered by outstanding performances from Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka.

West Indies, after opting to bat, managed to post a total of 162/8 in their 20 overs. Their innings was anchored by Rovman Powell (37 off 27) and Sherfane Rutherford (65 off 50), but the rest of the lineup struggled against Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling attack. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga picked up two crucial wickets each, while Kamindu Mendis and Matheesha Pathirana chipped in with a wicket apiece to restrict the West Indies.

In response, Sri Lanka's opening duo set the tone early. Pathum Nissanka played a solid knock of 39 off 22 balls, but it was Kusal Mendis who stole the show with a blistering 68* off 50 balls. Along with Kusal Perera, who smashed 55* off 36 balls, Sri Lanka cruised to victory with ease, losing only one wicket along the way.

Mendis was named Player of the Match for his explosive batting, while Pathum Nissanka, with consistent performances throughout the series, earned the Player of the Series award.

Match Summary:

• West Indies: 162/8 in 20 overs

  • Top Scorers: Sherfane Rutherford (65), Rovman Powell (37)
  • Top Bowlers (Sri Lanka): Maheesh Theekshana (2/19), Wanindu Hasaranga (2/24)

• Sri Lanka: 166/1 in 18 overs

  • Top Scorers: Kusal Mendis (68*), Kusal Perera (55*)
  • Top Bowlers (West Indies): Gudakesh Motie (1/31)

Sri Lanka won by 9 wickets

Sri Lanka's comprehensive victory underscores their growing strength, particularly at home. The Lankan bowlers, led by Hasaranga and Theekshana, outperformed the West Indian spinners, while their top-order batting was dominant throughout the chase. The West Indies, despite showing promise with the bat, were left searching for answers with the ball as Mendis and Nissanka put the game out of reach early in the innings.

Sri Lanka's resurgence in 2024 continues, with this being their fifth home series win in T20Is this year. West Indies, on the other hand, will need to reflect on their inability to capitalize after winning the first match of the series.