Key facts
- West Indies defeated Sri Lanka by seven wickets in the first T20 match.
- Sri Lanka scored 147-9 after batting first.
- Kamindu Mendis top-scored for Sri Lanka with 51 runs.
- Shai Hope remained unbeaten on 65 to lead the West Indies chase.
- Rovman Powell hit the winning six with four balls to spare.
The West Indies secured a seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the opening match of their three-game Twenty20 International series in Kingston, Jamaica. Rovman Powell sealed the win with a six in the final over as the hosts successfully chased a target of 148.
Sri Lanka, after winning the toss and choosing to bat, posted a total of 147-9. Kamindu Mendis was the highest scorer for the visitors with 51 runs, supported by captain Kusal Mendis who contributed 36. The West Indies bowlers, led by Jason Holder and Shamar Joseph who both took three wickets, performed strongly to restrict Sri Lanka.
In their pursuit, the West Indies reached 149-3 with four balls remaining. Captain Shai Hope anchored the innings with an unbeaten 65, and Powell provided the finishing touch. The T20 series follows Sri Lanka's 1-0 victory in the preceding ODI series, where the final two matches were washed out.
The remaining two T20 matches are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the same venue, Sabina Park.