Sri Lanka Triumphs Over West Indies in 2nd ODI Thriller at Kandy
The 2nd ODI between Sri Lanka and West Indies at Kandy turned out to be a captivating match on October 23, 2024. Sri Lanka, after electing to field first, showcased a well-coordinated bowling performance that put the West Indies on the back foot from the start. The visitors, aiming for a comeback in the series, lost early wickets due to exceptional bowling from Maheesh Theekshana and Asitha Fernando. Theekshana’s remarkable three-wicket spell rattled the West Indies’ top order, with the off-spinner’s brilliant turn and flight making it difficult for batsmen to settle. Asitha Fernando also chipped in, creating further breakthroughs, including a pivotal dismissal of West Indies’ captain Shai Hope, which placed the visitors in a difficult spot at 23 for 3.
The middle order struggled to gain any footing as the wickets continued to tumble, but Sherfane Rutherford stepped up with an aggressive 80 off 82 balls, bringing some stability to the innings. He found an able partner in Gudakesh Motie, who contributed an unbeaten 50 and helped build a valuable 119-run ninth-wicket partnership with Rutherford. Their combined resilience took West Indies’ total to 189 in 36 overs, as the lower order rallied to give their bowlers something to defend.
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Sri Lanka’s response with the bat was steady. Nishan Madushka’s 38 off 44 deliveries gave Sri Lanka the initial momentum, though Alzarri Joseph’s disciplined bowling managed to claim two early wickets, leaving Sri Lanka at 25 for 2. But Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka took charge of the situation, scoring a measured and confident 62 off 61 balls. Asalanka, alongside Sadeera Samarawickrama, who contributed a valuable 38, kept the innings on track.
Despite a couple of tight spells from the West Indies bowlers, Sri Lanka’s middle order maintained their composure, steadily chipping away at the target. Janith Liyanage added a handy 24, building crucial partnerships that brought Sri Lanka closer to victory. The team ultimately reached the target in 38.2 overs with five wickets in hand, clinching the game with 34 balls to spare.
Maheesh Theekshana’s spin wizardry earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award for his figures of 3 for 25, and his early strikes were crucial in setting the stage for Sri Lanka's win. With this victory, Sri Lanka now leads the three-match ODI series 2-0, marking a strong start and looking poised for a clean sweep in the final game.
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