West Indies Breaks the ODI Curse in Sri Lanka

A blistering century by Evin Lewis led the West Indies to a massive victory over Sri Lanka. After losing the first two matches, the Caribbean side defeated Sri Lanka by 8 wickets via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method in the third ODI. With this win, the West Indies ended a 19-year drought of ODI victories in Sri Lanka.

On Saturday in Pallekele, Sri Lanka opted to bat first after winning the toss. They scored 81 runs for 1 wicket before rain halted play for an extended period. Following the umpires' decision, the match was reduced to 23 overs. Having already played 17 overs, Sri Lanka adopted a T20 approach in the remaining 6 overs, adding 156 runs for the loss of 3 additional wickets.

Pathum Nissanka scored 56 off 62 balls, while Kusal Mendis matched his score off only 22 balls. Avishka Fernando contributed 34 runs. Roston Chase and Sherfane Rutherford each took a wicket for the West Indies.

The revised target for the West Indies was set at 195 runs in 23 overs, effectively turning the ODI into a T20-style chase for the Caribbean team. They lost their first wicket at a score of 36, with opener Brandon King scoring 16 off 19 balls before being caught by Kamindu Mendis off Asitha Fernando’s delivery.

Lewis continued his onslaught at the crease, supported by Shai Hope from the other end. Hope was dismissed for 27, but Lewis and Rutherford completed the chase without further trouble.

Evin Lewis remained unbeaten on 102 off 61 balls, with 9 fours and 4 sixes in his innings. Sherfane Rutherford also stayed not out, scoring a quick 50 off 26 balls, hitting 4 fours and 3 sixes. Evin Lewis was awarded the Player of the Match for his stellar performance.