New Delhi, India

Sri Lanka continued their dominant run at home and beat West Indies by five wickets, on DLS method, in the first of the three ODIs in Pallekele on Sunday (Oct 20). In a rain-marred clash, Nishan Madushka (69) and skipper Charith Asalanka (77) stood out for the hosts with fine half-centuries, chasing a revised target of 232 in 37 overs, before Wanindu Hasaranga weaved magic with the ball and took 2 wickets for 18 runs. 

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Opting to bat first, Shai Hope-led West Indies were 100-4 but the duo of Sherfane Rutherford and Roston Chase got together, for the fifth-wicket, and added an unbeaten 85 before a long rain delay meant West Indies couldn't bat their full quota of overs (ending at 185/4 in 38.3 overs). Hasaranga and Dunith Wallalage kept things tough whereas Jeffrey Vandersay and captain Asalanka chipped in with a wicket each. As a result, the hosts were given a revised target of 232.

Also read: WATCH - Ramandeep Singh bags a one-handed stunner against Pakistan-A in Emerging Asia Cup 2024

In reply, SL didn't start well courtesy of Alzarri Joseph's early strikes. The Lankans still kept themselves ahead throughout, mainly due to a 137-run fourth-wicket stand between Asalanka-Madushka. Spinner Gudakesh Motie removed the two set batters and Sadeera Samarawickrama (18) but the damage was long done. Eventually, Kamindu Mendis and Janith Liyanage ended proceedings for the hosts, with five wickets and 31 balls to spare. 

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The second and penultimate ODI will be held at the same venue, i.e. Pallekele International Stadium, Palleke on Oct 23 (Wednesday).