By Dwayne Ferreira
West Indies beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets in the first T20I at Sabina Park, with Shai Hope guiding the chase after strong bowling.
West Indies beat Sri Lanka with a composed seven-wicket victory in the opening T20 International at Sabina Park, taking a 1-0 lead in the series and once again showing their strength in home conditions.
Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat, but could only manage 147 for 9 from their 20 overs. Kamindu Mendis led the fight with a determined 51 from 39 balls, while captain Kusal Mendis gave the innings early direction with 36 from 23 deliveries. However, despite getting into useful positions, the visitors failed to turn their starts into a stronger total as West Indies tightened control late in the innings.
The home side deserves full credit for the way they bowled under pressure. Jason Holder used his experience brilliantly, while Shamar Joseph brought pace and energy, with both bowlers claiming three wickets each. Their spells ensured Sri Lanka were never allowed to fully dictate terms, and the tourists lost momentum badly in the closing overs as West Indies kept them to a total that always looked within reach.
West Indies then began the chase with authority and calmness. Brandon King gave the innings early momentum with a fluent 37, before captain Shai Hope took charge with an unbeaten 65 from 54 balls. Hope controlled the tempo of the chase superbly, mixing patience with timely boundaries, even as Sri Lanka briefly fought back through Wanindu Hasaranga’s two wickets.
With victory in sight, Rovman Powell completed the job as West Indies reached 149 for 3 with four balls to spare. It was a polished and deserved win for the hosts, who were sharper with the ball, calmer with the bat, and better in the key moments. Sri Lanka will now need a stronger batting display and cleaner execution if they are to bounce back in the second T20.
Chief Scores:
Sri Lanka – 147 for 9 in 20 Overs (Kamindu Mendis 51, Kusal Mendis 36, Pathum Nissanka 20, Jason Holder 3 for 26, Shamar Joseph 3 for 30, Akeal Hosein 1 for 17)
West Indies – 149 for 3 in 19.2 Overs (Shai Hope 65*, Brandon King 37, Rovman Powell 24*, Wanindu Hasaranga 2 for 29, Maheesh Theekshana 1 for 26, Dilshan Madushanka 0 for 28)
West Indies won by 7 wickets.
Player of the Match: Shai Hope (West Indies) – 65* off 54 balls
