KINGSTON, Jamaica – West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has praised the regional team for playing intelligent cricket in the third and final T2oI against Sri Lanka that secured a first series-win in the format at home in almost two years.
Despite being on the backfoot in their run chase, crucial knocks by Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell and Jason Holder powered them to a five-wicket victory over the visitors at Sabina Park on Sunday, to secure the three-match series 2-1.
Those performances followed a sensational spell of fast bowling by Shamar Joseph that saw him capture his maiden five-wicket haul in T20Is.
It was the Windies’ first bilateral T20I series win at home since August 2024 when they defeated South Africa 3-0.
Speaking to members of the media following the match, Sammy said he was impressed by the manner in which the team went about securing the victory.
“I wasn’t too nervous, I was just hoping that they get over the line, but today it was a lot more thoughtful and smart cricket, especially by Rovman and Sherfane and followed by Jason Holder. But I think the game was set up at front when we bowled, and Shamar Joseph continues to impress.
“We needed the victory. It’s been a while since we won a T20I series at home…so I’m glad that we could finish this series on a high,” Sammy said.
“…Getting a series win after almost two years is something to be proud of, especially after a World Cup and building for Australia 2028. We now have to put things together; skillsets, players to match the conditions, but most of all being under pressure today and having the nerve and the calm and the cricket smarts to do what it takes to come over the line, that was special.”
CMC
