In the 1st ODI between Sri Lanka and West Indies at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (October 20), leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga showcased his brilliance by turning the match in Sri Lanka’s favour. West Indies had made a cautious start after opting to bat first, with openers Brandon King and Alick Athanaze adding 41 runs for the first wicket. Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka’s decision to introduce Hasaranga into the attack immediately paid off. The leg-spinner wreaked havoc, claiming both openers within a short span, setting the stage for a dominant display from the home team.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s fury unleashed after Brandon King’s dismissal
The crucial moment came when Hasaranga dismissed King in his very first over. King, known for his aggressive strokeplay, attempted to put pressure on the bowler with a slog sweep. However, Hasaranga’s expertly delivered googly, pitched around off and middle stump, spun sharply into King. The West Indies opener misjudged the trajectory and left a gap between his bat and pad, allowing the ball to sneak through and shatter the stumps. Hasaranga’s animated celebration, featuring a passionate fist pump, reflected the significance of the breakthrough in what was shaping up to be a high-voltage encounter.
Here’s the video:
— ViratKingdom (@kingdom_virat1) October 20, 2024
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Sherfane Rutherford and Roston Chase lead West Indies’ recovery against Sri Lanka
After King’s dismissal, West Indies found themselves at 34/1 in the 8th over, putting pressure on the middle order. Alick Athanaze and Shai Hope failed to stabilize the innings, with both falling early, leaving the team in a tricky position at 54/3 by the 13th over. The spin duo of Hasaranga and Asalanka exploited the conditions well, each picking up key wickets.
Keacy Carty tried to anchor the innings with a patient knock of 37 off 58 balls, but his departure in the 26th over, caught by Wellalage off Asalanka, left the West Indies at 100/4, requiring a significant partnership. Sherfane Rutherford then took charge, playing a crucial knock of 74* off 82 balls, accelerating the scoring rate with a mixture of boundaries and aggressive running between the wickets. Supported by Roston Chase, who contributed a fluent 33* off 33 balls, the two helped West Indies rebuild and bring the score to 185/4 before rain interrupted play in the 39th over. The partnership between Rutherford and Chase brought much-needed stability to the innings, with their 85-run stand ensuring West Indies remained in a strong position despite earlier setbacks.
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