Shanaka, Mishara and Chameera Shine in Commanding All-Round Performance at Sabina Park

Match Highlights

• Sri Lanka defeated West Indies by 37 runs.
• Dasun Shanaka blasted 58 off 24 deliveries.
• Kamil Mishara remained unbeaten on 61.
• Dushmantha Chameera starred with 3 wickets for 9 runs.
• The three-match T20I series is now level at 1-1.

Sri Lanka produced a remarkable comeback in the second T20 International against West Indies at Sabina Park in Kingston, Jamaica, securing a convincing 37-run victory to level the three-match series at 1-1.

After suffering defeat in the opening match, the Sri Lankan side responded with determination and confidence, delivering an outstanding all-round performance with both bat and ball. The victory showcased the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure in the shortest format of the game.

Sri Lanka were asked to bat first after West Indies captain Rovman Powell won the toss and elected to field. The hosts hoped to repeat the success of the first T20I, but Sri Lanka had other plans.

Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, the visitors maintained a positive scoring rate and never allowed the pressure to build. Their innings received a major boost through an extraordinary partnership between Kamil Mishara and Dasun Shanaka.

Sri Lanka posted an impressive 194 for 6 from their 20 overs, recovering strongly from a difficult position of 88 for 4 in the 13th over. Mishara and Shanaka combined for a stunning fifth-wicket partnership of 103 runs in just 41 deliveries, completely shifting the momentum of the contest.

Shanaka was at his explosive best, smashing 58 runs from only 24 balls. His innings included five boundaries and four towering sixes. He reached his half-century in just 19 balls, equaling the record for the fastest T20I fifty by a Sri Lankan batsman.

One of the highlights of the innings came when Shanaka launched a massive six off Roston Chase that landed on the roof of the Sabina Park stadium. The aggressive strokeplay energized Sri Lanka’s innings and put the West Indies bowlers under immense pressure.

While Shanaka provided the fireworks, Mishara played the perfect supporting role. The young left-hander remained unbeaten on 61 from 40 deliveries, striking four fours and three sixes. Arriving at the crease early in the innings, he anchored the batting effort superbly and ensured Sri Lanka finished strongly.

With a challenging target of 195 to defend, Sri Lanka’s bowlers delivered a disciplined and clinical performance.

Dushmantha Chameera led the attack brilliantly, finishing with outstanding figures of 3 wickets for just 9 runs in his three overs. His pace, accuracy and control made scoring extremely difficult for the West Indian batsmen.

Wanindu Hasaranga once again demonstrated his world-class credentials, claiming 3 wickets for 38 runs and applying constant pressure during the middle overs.

West Indies never managed to establish momentum in their chase. Captain Rovman Powell fought hard with 43 runs from 26 deliveries, while Shimron Hetmyer added 35 runs. However, the remainder of the batting lineup struggled against Sri Lanka’s disciplined attack.

A key turning point came when West Indies appeared well placed at 89 for 2. A crucial run-out triggered a dramatic collapse, with the hosts losing six wickets for just 32 runs. From that point onward, Sri Lanka maintained complete control of the match.

West Indies were eventually bowled out for 157 in 19.2 overs, handing Sri Lanka a deserved 37-run victory.

The result was particularly impressive given Sri Lanka’s disappointing performance in the opening T20I, where they were bowled out for 148 and lost by 41 runs. The team’s response highlighted its character, resilience and determination to bounce back under pressure.

With the series now level at 1-1, cricket fans can look forward to an exciting decider as both teams battle for series honours.

Match Summary

Sources: ESPNcricinfo, ThePapare, Sri Lanka Cricket