The West Indies lost to Sri Lanka in the opening match of a three-match One Day International men’s series on Wednesday, June 3, at Sabina Park, Jamaica. Although the Men in Maroon had won four consecutive home series, oddsmakers favoured the visitors, a prediction that proved accurate.
The hosts won the toss and elected to field first. On the very first ball of the series, Keacy Carty dropped Pathum Nissanka off the bowling of Jayden Seales. Nissanka’s opening partner, Kamindu Mendis, was the first wicket to fall, dismissed by Seales for 12. Sri Lanka ended the fielding restrictions at 32-1.
Captain Kusal Mendis and Nissanka formed a stalwart partnership, piling on 136 runs for the third wicket. Nissanka made good on his early fortune, scoring 79, while Mendis finished on 72. Another strong stand worth 64 off 48 deliveries between Charith Asalanka (45) and Janith Liyanage (44 not out) carried Sri Lanka to a commanding 303-7 from their 50 overs.
The West Indies faced a challenging chase. Justin Greaves provided a strong start with 45, while captain Shai Hope scored 56 to keep the team in contention. Hope shared partnerships of 52 with Kaecy Carty and 33 with Roston Chase. Chase contributed 33, Gudakesh Motie added 22, and Shamar Joseph remained unbeaten on 23, but these efforts fell short.
A brief stoppage for bad light only delayed the inevitable, as the Windies fell by 41 runs. This was Sri Lanka’s first victory in the region since 2013. Spinner Dushmantha Chameera finished with figures of 4-67.
The Men in Maroon must regroup quickly as they seek vital points toward direct qualification for the 2027 World Cup.
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