Evin Lewis' Century Secures Consolation Win for West Indies Against Sri Lanka

PALLEKELE, Sri Lanka (AP) — Evin Lewis marked his return to One Day Internationals with a brilliant unbeaten 102, guiding the West Indies to a consolation victory against Sri Lanka in the final ODI of the series on Saturday.

Lewis, playing his first ODI since 2021, sealed the win with a straight six, completing his fifth ODI century off just 61 balls, despite rolling his left ankle when he was on 51.

The match was reduced to 23 overs per side due to a five-hour rain delay. Chasing a target of 157, the West Indies reached 196-2 at Pallekele International Stadium.

Sri Lanka's innings began with an 81-run opening partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando, both of whom were dropped early in their innings. Nissanka, who scored 56 runs before being run out, reached his 15th ODI half-century off 58 balls. Kusal Mendis also contributed with a quickfire 56 not out, hitting nine boundaries and a six.

The West Indies faced an early setback, losing their first wicket at 36 runs. However, Lewis and captain Shai Hope built a solid partnership, adding 72 runs for the second wicket. Hope was dismissed for 22, bringing Sherfane Rutherford to the crease. Rutherford made a swift impact, scoring an unbeaten 50 off just 26 balls, including three sixes and four fours.

With this victory, the West Indies ended the series on a high note, although Sri Lanka's Charith Asalanka was named Player of the Series after an impressive performance throughout.