Nissanka and Mendis Lead Sri Lanka to Victory Over West Indies

Sri Lanka made a winning start to the three-match ODI series, defeating West Indies by 41 runs in the first One-Day International in Kandy. A brilliant partnership between Pathum Nissanka and captain Kusal Mendis laid the foundation for the hosts’ victory before Dushmantha Chameera starred with the ball.

After winning the toss, West Indies opted to field first. They struck early by dismissing Kamindu Mendis, but Nissanka and Kusal Mendis soon took control of the innings. The pair added 136 runs for the second wicket to provide a solid platform for a big total.

Kusal Mendis scored 72 off 62 balls, while opener Nissanka made 79 from 102 deliveries. Later, Charith Asalanka contributed 45 and Janith Liyanage remained unbeaten on 44 as Sri Lanka posted 303 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs.

Chasing a target of 304, West Indies made a promising start. Opener Justin Greaves scored 45 off 38 balls, while captain Shai Hope played a fighting knock of 56 from 66 deliveries. However, regular wickets prevented the visitors from building momentum and gradually pushed them behind in the chase.

Roston Chase offered some resistance with 33 runs, but Dushmantha Chameera bowled him to deliver a decisive blow. West Indies were eventually bowled out for 262 in 49.4 overs.

Chameera was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, claiming four wickets for 67 runs. There was a brief interruption near the end of the match due to a floodlight failure, but by then West Indies’ chances of victory had virtually disappeared. They needed 43 runs from the final eight balls with only one wicket remaining.

The second ODI of the series will be played in Kingston on Saturday, while the third and final match is scheduled for Monday at Sabina Park.