Intro
Rutherford’s unbeaten fifty guides hosts to dramatic victory in decider
Kingston
Sherfane Rutherford produced a match-winning unbeaten half-century as West Indies clinched the three-match T20 International series 2-1 with a thrilling five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the deciding contest. Chasing 170 for victory, the hosts reached 170-5 with two balls to spare in a tense finish.
Rutherford remained unbeaten on 54 off 40 deliveries and held his nerve during the closing stages of the chase. He received crucial support from Jason Holder, who blasted 21 not out from just five balls, including three towering sixes in the penultimate over that swung the contest decisively in West Indies’ favour.
The match had remained evenly poised throughout after Sri Lanka posted a competitive 169. The visitors were hurt by two dropped catches that allowed Rutherford to continue his innings and eventually guide the hosts home.
Earlier, West Indies captain opted to bowl after winning the toss, a decision vindicated by an outstanding spell from Shamar Joseph. The fast bowler claimed 5-33, earning Player of the Match honours and playing a pivotal role in restricting Sri Lanka’s batting lineup.
Sri Lanka started positively, reaching 49-1 after five overs. However, Joseph struck twice in the sixth over to halt the momentum. Pathum Nissanka scored 26 off 17 balls, while Dunith Wellalage anchored the innings with a valuable 43 from 28 deliveries. Wanindu Hasaranga added a quick 21 before being run out in the 19th over. Joseph then returned to claim three wickets in the final over as Sri Lanka finished on 169.
West Indies suffered an early setback when Shai Hope fell in the opening over. Although the hosts raced to 52, they then lost three wickets for one run, allowing Sri Lanka back into the contest. Rovman Powell’s brisk 33 and an 81-run partnership with Rutherford revived the chase.
A costly 17th over from Dushmantha Chameera yielded 24 runs and shifted the momentum permanently. Holder’s late assault left only six runs required from the final over, which Rutherford completed calmly to secure the series victory.
Sri Lanka had earlier won the ODI series 1-0. The teams will next meet in a two-Test series beginning on June 25 in Antigua.
