West Indies clinched the T20I series against Sri Lanka on Sunday, securing a five-wicket win in the third match at Kingston, Jamaica. Sherfane Rutherford’s unbeaten 54 and Shamar Joseph’s five-wicket haul propelled the West Indies to 170-5, overcoming Sri Lanka’s total of 169 to win the series 2-1.
How did West Indies overcome Sri Lanka in the T20I decider?
Sherfane Rutherford reached his half-century in the final over to secure the victory, according to the Associated Press. Rutherford finished unbeaten on 54 from 40 deliveries. He was supported by Jason Holder, who clobbered three sixes in the penultimate over to finish 21 not out from five balls.
The run chase was not without tension. After losing Shai Hope on the third delivery, West Indies saw a momentum shift when they lost three wickets for just one run during a 12-ball span. Rovman Powell helped stabilize the innings with a 81-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Rutherford, according to the AP.
The 17th over proved chaotic for Sri Lanka. Pace bowler Dushmantha Chameera delivered nine balls in a single over, including a no-ball and two wides. This sequence netted 24 runs for West Indies and resulted in the dismissal of Powell, leaving the team needing 36 runs from the final three overs.
Why was Shamar Joseph the deciding factor for West Indies?
Shamar Joseph earned player-of-the-match honors after taking 5-33 to contain the Sri Lankan innings, the AP reported. Joseph’s impact was felt in critical phases, taking two wickets in the sixth over and three wickets in the final over of the Sri Lankan innings.
While Joseph missed two opportunities to claim a hat-trick, his ability to break partnerships was vital. He trapped Pavan Rathnayake leg-before-wicket following a 43-run stand between Pathum Nissanka and Roston Chase. His bowling helped limit Sri Lanka to 169 despite a late rally from Dunith Wellalage, who scored 43 from 28 balls.
The preceding three-match ODI series was decided by a single game. Sri Lanka won that series 1-0 after rain forced the cancellation of the final two matches.
How does this T20I result compare to the recent ODI series?
The T20I series outcome shows a reversal of form between the two sides. While West Indies won this T20I series 2-1, Sri Lanka had previously secured the ODI series 1-0. This suggests a shift in tactical dominance as the teams move between shorter and longer formats.
The T20I series was highly competitive, with the first game won by West Indies by seven wickets and the second won by Sri Lanka by 37 runs. This split set the stage for Sunday’s deciding match in Kingston.
What is the schedule for the next series?
The competition moves from the fast-paced T20 format to Test cricket. The two teams are scheduled to begin a two-test series on June 25 in Antigua, according to official tour updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was the player of the match in the third T20I? Shamar Joseph received player-of-the-match honors for his 5-33 performance.
- What was the final score of the match? Sri Lanka scored 169, and West Indies reached 170-5.
- When does the next series begin? The two-test series starts on June 25 in Antigua.
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