Sri Lanka Clinch Historic Series Victory Over West Indies with Dominant 5-Wicket Win

Sri Lanka create history as they defeat West Indies by 5 wickets in the 2nd ODI of the three-match series at Hambantota // IMAGE - SLC/X

Hambantota, June 18, 2024 - Sri Lanka Women's cricket team achieved a historic milestone by securing their first WODI series win against West Indies in 16 years, with a commanding 5-wicket victory in the second ODI of the three-match series at Hambantota. The hosts now lead the series 2-0, rendering the final match a mere formality.

Winning the toss and electing to bat first, the West Indies struggled to find their footing against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack. Kavisha Dilhari was the standout performer, claiming 4 wickets for just 20 runs in her 6 overs. The visitors were bundled out for a meager 92 runs in 31 overs, with Rashada Williams being the top scorer, managing 24 runs off 62 balls.

Despite losing their star batter Chamari Athapaththu early to Aaliyah Alleyne, Sri Lanka's chase was steady. Harshitha Samarawickrama followed Athapaththu back to the pavilion after attempting a big pull shot but was caught in the deep. However, a solid third-wicket partnership between Vishmi Gunaratne and Kavisha Dilhari put Sri Lanka in a commanding position. The duo added 58 runs off 64 balls, with Vishmi Gunaratne scoring an impressive run-a-ball 50, including 9 fours and a six, while Dilhari contributed 28 runs off 38 balls.

Late in the innings, West Indies bowlers Karishma Ramharack and Zaida James struck back, taking crucial wickets to reduce Sri Lanka to 89/5. Ramharack was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/29, supported by James (1/12), Shamilia Connell (1/13), and Alleyne (1/15). However, the target was too small to pose a real threat, and Sri Lanka comfortably reached 93/5, clinching the victory.

That's it! 🇱🇰 Our girls take the series victory over the West Indies with a fantastic 5-wicket win and a game in hand! 👏 #SLvWI #LionessesRoar pic.twitter.com/VCT4uEjfGC

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) June 18, 2024

This series win marks a significant achievement for Sri Lanka, breaking a 16-year drought against the West Indies in WODI series. The final ODI of the series will be played on June 21st, where both teams will look to end on a high note.

Score Summary:

West Indies: 92 all out in 31 overs (Rashada Williams 24; Kavisha Dilhari 4/20)

Sri Lanka: 93/5 in 25.4 overs (Vishmi Gunaratne 50, Kavisha Dilhari 28; Karishma Ramharack 2/29)