17-Jun-2024 12:32 PM
5561
St Lucia, June 17 (Reporter) Sri Lanka showcased their prowess in all three departments to secure a comfortable 83-run victory against the Netherlands in their final match of the 2024 T20 World Cup here on Monday.
Despite an early setback, key contributions from the top and middle order propelled Sri Lanka to a formidable 201-6 on a favorable batting pitch.
Netherlands kept it tight initially, with Vivian Kingma dismissing Pathum Nissanka early. However, Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis broke free in the fifth over, setting a steady platform. The powerplay concluded with Sri Lanka at 45-2.
Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis stabilized the innings, with boundaries becoming scarce after the powerplay. An expensive over from Tim Pringle allowed Sri Lanka to accelerate, reaching 79-2 by the end of the middle phase.
Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, and Wanindu Hasaranga went on a six-hitting spree, pushing Sri Lanka past 200. Erratic Dutch bowling and fielding errors contributed to Sri Lanka's late surge, amassing 77 runs in the last phase.
Netherlands started their chase with intent, scoring 47-2 despite early wickets. Michael Levitt and Max O'Dowd utilized the powerplay well, but Sri Lankan bowlers soon tightened their grip.
The momentum swung in Sri Lanka's favor post-powerplay. Consistent wickets from Shanaka, Hasaranga, and Pathirana broke the back of the Dutch chase, leaving them reeling at 71-6 by the 10th over.
With 100 runs required off the last five overs, Netherlands faltered. Scott Edwards provided some resistance, but Nuwan Thushara's disciplined bowling ensured a quick wrap-up, with Netherlands bowled out for 118.
Brief Scores: Sri Lanka: 201/6 in 20 overs (Charith Asalanka 46, Kusal Mendis; Logan van Beek 2-45). Netherlands: 118/10 in 20 overs (Michael Levitt 31, Scott Edwards 31; Nuwan Thushara 3-24)...////...