Sri Lanka showed a dominant performance Fix the T20I series against West IndiaHe secured a 73-run victory in the second match at Dambulla on Tuesday (October 15). The victory was enhanced by the brilliance of the debutant Dunith WellalageWest Indian spin a net around the batters. His outstanding performance along with the contributions of other Sri Lankan spinners proved decisive.
As Wellalage leads the way, Sri Lanka’s experienced spinners, Mahesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga and Charith AsalankaHe played an important supporting role in dismantling the West Indies group. Known for their accuracy and variations, Theekshana and Hasaranga took two wickets each, keeping the pressure on the opposition throughout the innings.
Dunith Wellalage’s three crucial wickets: Destroys West Indies’ top order
Wellalage’s introduction to T20 International cricket could not have been more impressive as the young Sri Lankan spinner dismantled the West Indies top order, taking three wickets for just 9 runs in his 4 over spell. With incredible control and guile, the 20-year-old outclassed the West Indians on a turning pitch in Dambulla.
- Brandon King (caught by Kusal Mendis) Wellalage’s first T20I wicket came in well-established form Brandon King. King brought down the wicket to break the shackles but was beaten by Wellalage who dragged the ball shorter. The king, trapped, was allowed Where in Mandy easily clearing the wickets, giving the young spinner the first wicket.
- Andre Fletcher (caught by Kamindu Mendis) The pressure got better Andre Fletcher While trying to sweep a well-flighted delivery from Wellalage. The ball took the top edge and Kamindu Mendis at slip made no mistake, stepping back for a simple catch and further denting West Indies’ hopes of building a sustainable partnership.
- Roston Chase (caught by Kusal Mendis) Wellalage finished by removing the ghost spell Roston Chase. Tossed the ball up with a charming flight, he made Chase slip. The late drop of the delivery completely fooled Chase, highlighting Wellalage’s superior control over his variations.
Also WATCH: 4,4,4,4,4 – Pathum Nissanka savages Shamar Joseph in 2nd T20I.
Sri Lanka’s dominant win over West Indies
Earlier, Sri Lanka, after posting a competitive total of 162/5, Pathum Nissankapatient of 54 and Kusal Perera‘s live 24, spinners demonstration played. Wellalage (3/9) was the standout performer, ably supported by Theekshana, Hasaranga and Asalanka, each taking important wickets. West Indies never recovered, falling to 89 in just 16.1 overs. Despite their explosive line-up, they could not find an answer to Sri Lanka’s spin attack. Their top order faltered early and the middle order collapsed under mounting pressure, as did the key players. Johnson Charles and the King comes cheap. Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling combined with a sharp fielding sealed the match with ease.
