Nissanka, Mendis Power Sri Lanka to 303-7, Bowl Out West Indies For 262 in First ODI

Sri Lanka national cricket team secured a convincing 41-run victory over West Indies cricket team in the opening One-Day International of the three-match series on Wednesday, thanks to impressive batting performances from captain Kusal Mendis and opener Pathum Nissanka. The win gave Sri Lanka a 1-0 lead in the series and highlighted their strength in both batting and bowling departments.

After being asked to bat first, Sri Lanka recovered from an early setback to post a competitive total of 303 for 7. Nissanka anchored the innings with a patient 79 off 102 deliveries, while Kusal Mendis accelerated the scoring with a fluent 72 from just 62 balls. The pair added 136 runs for the second wicket, laying a solid foundation for the innings. Valuable contributions from Charith Asalanka (45) and an unbeaten 44 from Janith Liyanage helped Sri Lanka cross the 300-run mark.

West Indies began their chase positively, with opener Justin Greaves scoring 45 and captain Shai Hope leading the response with a composed 56 from 66 balls. The hosts built partnerships of 50 and 52 runs during the early stages of the chase, keeping themselves within reach of the target despite a steadily increasing required run rate.

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However, Sri Lanka's bowlers struck at regular intervals during the middle overs to derail the chase. Wickets continued to fall, placing pressure on the lower order. West Indies still had hopes of a recovery while Roston Chase remained at the crease, but his dismissal for 33 proved decisive. Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera emerged as the standout performer with the ball, claiming four wickets and ensuring the hosts never regained momentum.

An unusual interruption occurred near the end of the match when a floodlight failure forced players off the field because of poor light. By then, the result was virtually decided, with West Indies requiring 43 runs from just eight balls and having only one wicket remaining. Play eventually concluded with the hosts bowled out for 262 in the final over.

The victory gives Sri Lanka an early advantage in the three-match ODI series. The second match will be played in Kingston on Saturday, while the final ODI is scheduled for Monday at Sabina Park. West Indies will now be looking for a strong response to level the series, while Sri Lanka will aim to seal the contest with another win.

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