NEW DELHI: Sri Lanka bounced back in the second T20 against the West Indies, securing a resounding 73-run victory in Dambulla on Tuesday. This win marked their biggest margin of triumph against the Caribbean side and their sixth-largest in T20Is.
Defending a target of 163, Sri Lanka's spin-heavy attack dismantled the West Indies batting lineup, bundling them out for a mere 89 runs in 16.1 overs.
This total was the West Indies' lowest against Sri Lanka in T20Is and their sixth-lowest overall. The spinners claimed nine wickets, exploiting the deteriorating pitch conditions.
Debutant all-rounder Dunith Wellalage shone with figures of 3-9 in his four overs, while Maheesh Theekshana, Charith Asalanka, and Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with two wickets each.
The West Indies struggled from the outset, losing both openers within the first four overs and limping to 21-3 by the end of the powerplay.
Earlier, Sri Lanka's total of 162 was built on a solid 72-run opening stand between Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka.
Nissanka top-scored with 54 off 49 balls, hitting nine fours and a six. Contributions from Kusal Perera (24) and Kamindu Mendis (19) helped push the total past 160.
For the West Indies, spinners Chase and Gudakesh Motie were economical, conceding only 37 runs in their combined eight overs. This raised questions about the visitors' decision not to include an additional spinner in their lineup.
The series decider will take place on Thursday, also at Dambulla, with Sri Lanka aiming for an upset series victory over the higher-ranked West Indies.
The West Indies had won the first match by five wickets on Sunday. The T20 series will be followed by a three-match ODI series.
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