SL vs WI [WATCH]: Maheesh Theekshana’s spin masterclass dismisses Alick Athanaze in the second ODI

Oct 24, 2024

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SL vs WI [WATCH]: Maheesh Theekshana’s spin masterclass dismisses Alick Athanaze in the second ODI

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Sri Lanka sealed the three-match ODI series against the West Indies with a dominant performance in the second game, thanks to Maheesh Theekshana’s spin brilliance. The off-spinner was instrumental in breaking the Caribbean batting order, dismissing key players, including Alick Athanaze, in a display that captivated fans and secured a 2-0 lead for Sri Lanka.

Maheesh Theekshana’s magic delivery cleans up Alick Athanaze

In the third over of the West Indies innings, Theekshana delivered what could be described as the ball of the match. Facing Caribbean promising batter Athanaze, Theekshana unleashed a tossed-up delivery that drifted into the middle stump, forcing Athanaze to lean forward. The ball spun sharply away, beating the batter’s outside edge and clattering into the top of the off-stump. Athanaze could only watch as his stumps were shattered, departing for just 1 run off 3 balls. Theekshana’s joy was evident as he jumped and punched the air, celebrating a dream delivery.

Here is the video:

#ICYMI: Tricky Theekshana grabbed 3/26 and earned the Player of the Match award as Sri Lanka sealed the ODI series in clinical fashion. 💪#SLvWIonFanCode pic.twitter.com/vstSJGh952

— FanCode (@FanCode) October 24, 2024

Theekshana’s impact didn’t stop with Athanaze. The spinner continued to dominate, claiming two more vital wickets. He bowled Keacy Carty for 6 and later dismissed Hayden Walsh for just 1, ending with remarkable figures of 3 wickets for 25 runs in his 9 overs. His exceptional economy rate of 2.80 played a pivotal role in stifling the Caribbean batting lineup.

For his match-winning efforts, Theekshana was rightfully named the Player of the Match.

Also READ: All-round Sri Lanka seals the ODI series against West Indies

Sri Lanka clinches series 2-0

Despite Theekshana’s dominance, West Indies found some resistance in Sherfane Rutherford, who played a lone hand for his side. Rutherford top-scored with a well-compiled 80, which included seven fours and four towering sixes. However, his effort wasn’t enough as the West Indies were bowled out for a modest total of 189.

Alongside Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga also delivered a standout performance with the ball. The leg-spinner picked up 4 wickets in his 8-over spell, further weakening the West Indies’ chances of putting up a challenging score. Together, the Sri Lankan spinners ensured that West Indies could never build momentum.

In response, Sri Lanka made light work of the 190-run target, chasing it down with 5 wickets in hand under the DLS method. Captain Charith Asalanka led from the front, anchoring the chase with a composed knock of 62 not out. His knock, featuring 7 boundaries and a six, ensured Sri Lanka crossed the line comfortably.

With this comprehensive win, Sri Lanka wrapped up the series 2-0, having just one match left in the three-match series. The team’s clinical performance with both bat and ball underscored their dominance, while Theekshana’s brilliance provided a highlight that will be remembered for some time.