Rutherford and Holder Power West Indies to Series Victory

Sherfane Rutherford’s unbeaten half-century and a late cameo from Jason Holder guided West Indies to a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka, securing the three-match T20I series 2-1.

In the series-deciding third T20I on Sunday, Sri Lanka posted 169 runs after being sent in to bat. In reply, the hosts reached 170 for 5 with two balls to spare. Rutherford remained unbeaten on 54 off 40 deliveries, while Holder smashed 21 not out from just five balls, including three sixes.

West Indies opted to bowl first after winning the toss, and the decision was vindicated by pacer Shamar Joseph. He produced a match-winning spell of 5 for 33 and was named Player of the Match. Striking crucial blows in both the sixth and final overs of the innings, Joseph prevented Sri Lanka from building a bigger total.

For Sri Lanka, Dunith Wellalage scored 43 off 28 balls. Wanindu Hasaranga also contributed 21 from 13 deliveries but was unable to steer his side to a commanding score.

Chasing 170, West Indies lost Shai Hope early. However, an 81-run partnership between Rovman Powell and Rutherford brought them back into the contest. Powell scored 33 before being dismissed, while Rutherford held the innings together and guided his team towards victory.

West Indies needed 36 runs from the final three overs, and Holder turned the game in their favor. He struck three sixes off Dushmantha Chameera in the 19th over to reduce the equation significantly. The hosts eventually sealed victory with two deliveries remaining.

Earlier, Sri Lanka had won the rain-affected three-match ODI series 1-0. The two teams will next meet in a two-match Test series starting on June 25.