Sri Lanka opts to play the West Indies in the second T20

DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka (AFP) – Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat against the West Indies in the second T20 in Dambulla on Tuesday to level the series.

The West Indies lead the three-match series 1-0 after a comfortable five-wicket win on Sunday.

“We need a few batters to score big and others to contribute,” said Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka. “We expect the spinners to play a big role.”

The West Indies are third in the ICC T20 rankings while Sri Lanka are at eighth place.

“We’re happy to be there,” said West Indies captain Rovman Powell. “It’s just about us playing good cricket to put the opposition under pressure.”

The final T20 against the West Indies, also in Dambulla, will be played on Thursday.

The T20 series will be followed by a three-match ODI series.

teams

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (Week), Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (Capt), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thosehara

West Indies: Rovman Powell (Capt), Roston Chase, Andre Fletcher (Week), Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer, Shamar Joseph

Referees: Lyndon Hannibal (SRI) and Raveendra Wimalasiri (SRI)

Third referee: Prageeth Rambukwella (SRI)

Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)