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Sri Lanka national cricket team, Sri Lanka, West Indies
Sri Lanka’s Vintage Triumph Revises T20 World Cup Narrative
An extraordinary effort from Hasaranga, Shanaka and Gunathilaka earns Sri Lanka a miraculous win over the West Indies
Sri Lanka’s marvellous triumph over the West Indies on Sunday evening has dramatically changed the narrative of the 2022 T20 World Cup. With the tournament’s favourites Australia, England and India already eliminated, Sunday’s result has blown the competition wide open.
Here’s a look at three key takeaways from the game:
Wanindu Hasaranga’s heroics
The 25-year-old was the star of the show for Sri Lanka, taking three wickets for just 15 runs in his four overs – including the crucial wickets of Chris Gayle and Nicholas Pooran.
Hasaranga also bowled the final over of the match, conceding only 1 run and taking the wicket of Jason Holder to secure the victory.
Dasun Shanaka’s aggressive captaincy
Sri Lanka’s captain was bold and decisive in his leadership throughout the match. He brought Hasaranga into the attack early, and his decision to bowl the veteran spinner in the final over was a masterstroke.
Shanaka also made a crucial contribution with the bat, scoring 21 runs off 20 balls and hitting the winning runs in the final over.
Sri Lanka’s never-say-die attitude
The West Indies were the favourites heading into the match, but Sri Lanka never gave up. They fought back from a difficult position to win the match in the final over.
This victory is a testament to the team’s character and resilience, and it will give them a huge boost of confidence going into the rest of the tournament.