Dambulla, Sri Lanka - A breathtaking display of power-hitting from Brandon King and Evin Lewis propelled the West Indies to a commanding five-wicket victory in the first T20 against Sri Lanka on Sunday.
The run chase began with fireworks, as the duo of King and Lewis amassed 74 runs within a six-over powerplay, putting Sri Lanka on the defensive.
King was the first to reach his half-century, elegantly carving a cover drive for four off Matheesha Pathirana. His 50 came off just 25 balls, while Lewis followed shortly, needing only 27 deliveries for his half-century.
“My role was to get the team off to a good start — and it came off well”, King said.
Together, King and Lewis added 107 runs in just nine overs for the opening wicket. It was the highest partnership for West Indies against Sri Lanka in T20 cricket for any wicket.
The partnership was eventually broken when Pathirana deceived Lewis with a slower ball, the batsman edging it to Chamindu Wickramasinghe at backward point.
King went on to top-score with a blazing 63 off 33 balls, including 11 fours and a six.
With the openers setting up the chase, the middle order merely had to rotate the strike, picking singles and taking calculated risks to seal the win.
Sri Lanka attempted to claw back by picking up a few wickets, but the damage inflicted by the opening pair left the hosts in a near-impossible position.
All-rounder Roston Chase and captain Powell steadied the innings, contributing 32 runs for the fourth wicket. Powell fell for 13 in the 17th over, mistiming a straight six attempt off Maheesh Theekshana to Wanindu Hasaranga at long-on.
Chase departed for 19, caught behind off Pathirana, but the job was nearly complete.
Despite torrential rain threatening to wash out play, the ground staff’s swift efforts allowed the game to proceed after a 30-minute delay.
Earlier, half-centuries by Kamindu Mendis and Charith Asalanka had lifted Sri Lanka to a seemingly competitive 179, with the pair sharing an 82-run stand off 54 balls for the fourth wicket.
However, it proved insufficient against the explosive West Indian openers, who dismantled Sri Lanka’s bowling attack.
“Whatever we did today it didn’t work out for us, but we will come back after addressing a few issues,” skipper Asalanka said.
“The plus point for us is that we are playing good cricket.”
The West Indies are third in the global T20 rankings, while Sri Lanka languishes in eighth.
West Indies’ Dominant Start
The West Indies’ victory was a testament to their powerful batting and disciplined bowling. The team’s opening partnership between King and Lewis was a key factor in their success. The pair’s synergy was evident as they smashed 107 runs in just nine overs, setting the tone for the chase.
The West Indies’ bowling attack was equally impressive, restricting Sri Lanka to a total of 179 for 7. Romario Shepherd, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie and debutant Shamar Springer were instrumental in keeping the hosts in check.
King and Lewis Set the Stage
King and Lewis’ record-breaking partnership in the first T20I was the highlight of the match. The pair’s ability to find the boundaries with ease put immense pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers. Their performance was a clear indication of the West Indies’ intent to dominate the series.
A Well-Rounded Performance
The West Indies’ victory was a result of a well-rounded performance. The team’s batting prowess was evident in their chase, while their bowling unit was equally impressive in restricting Sri Lanka. The team’s discipline and synergy were key to their success.
Looking Ahead
With the series now 1-0 in their favor, the West Indies will be looking to build on their dominant start. The team’s confidence will be high, and they will be hoping to carry their momentum into the remaining two T20Is. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup and bounce back in the upcoming matches. The series promises to be an exciting one, with both teams eager to prove their mettle.
