Asalanka, Madushka shine in SL’s first ODI win

Skipper Charith Asalanka and debutant opener Nishan Madushka led a remarkable recovery for Sri Lanka, scoring 77 and 69 runs, respectively.

Their impressive fourth-wicket partnership of 137 runs guided Sri Lanka to a comfortable 5-wicket victory with 31 balls to spare in their first ODI match at Pallekele Cricket Stadium yesterday.

Chasing a revised target of 232 runs in 37 overs, Sri Lanka reached the target in 31.5 overs while losing five wickets.

The partnership was crucial, especially after the team encountered early setbacks, losing their first three wickets for just 45 runs.

Asalanka showcased his leadership, scoring 77 runs off 71 balls with 8 fours and 3 sixes while also becoming the fastest Sri Lankan to surpass 2000 ODI runs.

Madushka provided crucial support, striking 69 runs off 54 balls (7 fours and a six), marking an standout debut fifty.

After Asalanka and Madushka’s departures, courtesy of leg spinner Gudakesh Motie, Kamindu Mendis stepped up, scoring 30 runs off 21 balls with 3 fours and a winning six off Jayden Seales.

All-rounder Janith Liyanage added an unbeaten 18 runs off 18 balls, hitting a four and a six, as they formed an unbroken 47-run partnership to secure the win.

This impressive chase allowed Sri Lanka to take a 1-0 lead in the series, despite the rain disruption.

Gudakesh Motie was the standout bowler for the West Indies, claiming 3 wickets for 47 runs. Charith Asalanka was awarded Player of the Match.