By Dhammika Ratnaweera
West Indies showed their power once again to clean sweep 2-0 at the T-20 series against Sri Lanka played at Pallekele Intentional cricket stadium. They recorded seven wickets win with three overs to spare to seal the comfortable victory with a gallant effort from Kieron Pollard and the team and they entertain the Pallekele crowd with power hitting.
After losing the ODI series 3-0 Pollard and the team came up with an experienced team to fight against the home team. Allrounder Andree Russell showed his strength during this two-match series with fine all-round capabilities. Russel scored quickfire knock of 40 in just 14 balls and hit six big sixes to gain this victory. He finished the game with a six off Angelo Matthews and also his blasting knock of 40 with six sixes set up new record first player to reach 40 runs with six sixes.
Skipper Kieron Pollard collected the trophy and his mates celebrated with this 2-0 series win. Pollard said they were satisfied to taste the victory in the Sri Lankan shores. “We are very happy. What was more pleasing is the intensity we showed today. It’s a new day and the guys executed their plans brilliantly. It was a total team effort and end of the day all team celebrated this win Russell coming at the end and finishing it.” said Pollard.
The foundation was laid by Brandon King. The young guy, who’s finding his feet in international cricket. The way, the bowlers bowled was fantastic. The proper execution with the ball and sticking to the plans were key for the West Indies. They all showed going in one direction.
Meanwhile, Sri Lankan skipper Lasith Malinga was disappointed about the series as the West Indies dominated both games with superb all-round performances. Malinga said that he thought of getting around 160-170.
Sri Lanka struggled to score freely, and Dwayne Bravo’s first over brought the wicket of Kusal Mendis, caught at deep square leg, and Angelo Mathews, who ran himself out for 23. Cottrell removed the dangerous Wanindu Hasaranga for 8 before Thisara Perera and Dasun Shanaka provided some much-needed late impetus to the innings, adding 46 in the last 3.5 overs to lift the hosts to 155/6.
“Unfortunately, Wanindu got injured and he was our main guy in the bowling department. Still no excuses. We had to get early wickets and altogether, our bowling wasn’t good during these games. The new management is doing the right thing, I want to thank all the Sri Lankan supporters. In the next 12 games, we have to concentrate on consistency.” added Malinga.
Malinga was in all praises for Thisara Perera and Angelo Mathews for their experience in T20 cricket. “We want to deliver the best for Sri Lankan team in the next few months. All the players give their 100 per cent but we still want to improve on our fielding in this T-20 format.” said Malinga.
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