Sri Lanka Holds Off West Indies Despite Rutherford-Motie Partnership

In the second ODI of the 2024 series against Sri Lanka, the West Indies demonstrated resilience, recovering from a dire position of 58 for 8 to post a total of 189 runs. This recovery was largely thanks to a remarkable 119-run partnership between Sherfane Rutherford and Gudakesh Motie, which provided the visitors with a glimmer of hope on a challenging pitch at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

The match began after a significant rain delay, which reduced the contest to 44 overs per side. West Indies struggled against Sri Lanka's new-ball bowlers from the outset. Alick Athanaze was dismissed early by Maheesh Theekshana, who continued to wreak havoc by taking the wickets of Brandon King and Shai Hope in quick succession. Asitha Fernando also contributed, leaving the West Indies in a precarious position at 31 for 4 after his dismissal of Keacy Carty.

Wanindu Hasaranga further dented the West Indies' hopes, taking the crucial wickets of Roston Chase and Romario Shepherd with well-executed deliveries. He also bowled Alzarri Joseph in his next over, leaving the West Indies reeling at 58 for 8. Theekshana’s impressive figures of 3 for 16 in his five overs added to the pressure on the visitors.

However, Rutherford, scoring 80 off 82 balls, and Motie, who remained unbeaten at 50 off 61, launched a counteroffensive that turned the tide. Their partnership not only stabilized the innings but also provided a fighting total for the West Indies, leaving Sri Lanka to chase a modest target.