Sri Lanka bounced back in the second T20I to level the series 1-1 against the West Indies, securing a commanding 73-run victory. Pathum Nissanka’s crucial half-century helped Sri Lanka post a total of 162 for 5, while the home side’s spinners wreaked havoc on a turning track to bundle out the visitors for just 89 in 16.1 overs.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Sri Lanka struggled in the early overs, scoring just 8 runs in the first three. However, Pathum Nissanka’s aggressive hitting in the second over, which included four boundaries, kickstarted the innings. Nissanka then partnered with Kusal Mendis to accelerate the scoring, as Sri Lanka reached 50 by the end of the PowerPlay.
Despite some breakthroughs for West Indies, including the dismissal of Mendis, Nissanka anchored the innings, reaching his 50 before falling to Shamar Joseph. Late contributions from Kamindu Mendis and Wanindu Hasaranga pushed Sri Lanka to a competitive total of 162.
West Indies’ chase got off to a rocky start, with Sri Lankan debutant Dunith Wellalage picking up key early wickets, including Brandon King and Evin Lewis. Maheesh Theekshana and Wellalage tightened the noose, as the West Indies struggled to handle the spin-friendly conditions. The visitors went 37 deliveries without a boundary, and despite a brief resistance from Rovman Powell and Alzarri Joseph, West Indies collapsed for 89, handing Sri Lanka a comprehensive win.
Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 162/5 in 20 overs (Pathum Nissanka 54, Kusal Mendis 26; Romario Shepherd 2-23, Shamar Springer 1-24)
West Indies 89 in 16.1 overs (Rovman Powell 20, Alzarri Joseph 16; Dunith Wellalage 3-9, Maheesh Theekshana 2-7)
Sri Lanka won by 73 runs.