Sri Lanka’s Captain Charith Asalanka Leads Team to Victory Over West Indies in Second ODI
Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka showcased his leadership skills and batting prowess as he guided his team to a five-wicket victory over the West Indies in the second one-day international (ODI) cricket match at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.
Chasing a target of 190, Sri Lanka faced a tricky situation but Asalanka’s unbeaten half-century proved to be the difference-maker as the home team reached the target with 34 balls to spare. Asalanka scored an impressive 62 off 61 deliveries, including one six and seven fours, to steer his team to victory.
The match, which was reduced to 44 overs per side due to rain delays, saw Sri Lanka lose two early wickets before a crucial partnership between Nishan Madushka and Sadeera Samarawickrama stabilized the innings. Asalanka then took charge and guided his team to victory with the help of Janith Liyanage, sharing a vital partnership of 55 runs for the fifth wicket.
This victory secured a series win for Sri Lanka, as they had also won the opening game by five wickets. The win marked the fifth consecutive bilateral ODI series victory for Sri Lanka this year, highlighting their impressive form in home conditions.
After the match, Asalanka expressed his happiness at contributing to the team’s success and emphasized the importance of maintaining their winning momentum. The third and final match of the series is set to take place at the same venue on Saturday, with the West Indies looking to salvage some pride in the series.
Despite the loss, West Indies showed resilience earlier in the match, with Sherfane Rutherford and Gudakesh Motie putting on a record 119-run partnership for the ninth wicket to lift the team from a precarious position. Rutherford’s knock of 80 and Motie’s unbeaten 50 showcased their fighting spirit, but it was not enough to prevent Sri Lanka from emerging victorious.
With impressive performances from bowlers Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, who claimed crucial wickets during the West Indies innings, Sri Lanka’s comprehensive victory highlighted their dominance in the series. Asalanka’s leadership and batting form will be key for Sri Lanka as they look to continue their winning streak in the final match of the series.
