Gros Islet, St. Lucia – Sri Lanka concluded their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign on a high note, delivering a commanding 83-run victory over the Netherlands. Electing to bat first, the Sri Lankans put on a masterclass in T20 batting, amassing a formidable total that proved insurmountable for the Dutch.expand_more
Sri Lankan Fireworks:
Despite losing opener Pathum Nissanka early, Sri Lanka’s middle order unleashed a barrage of boundaries and sixes. Kusal Mendis (46) and Dhananjaya de Silva (34) laid a solid foundation, while Charith Asalanka (46) and Angelo Mathews (30) provided the fireworks with their aggressive strokeplay. A late blitz from Wanindu Hasaranga (20 off 6) propelled Sri Lanka to an imposing 201/7 in their allotted 20 overs.
The Netherlands’ bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with Logan van Beek (2/45) being the only bowler to claim multiple wickets. The Dutch attack found it difficult to cope with the Sri Lankan batsmen’s power-hitting and inventive shot selection.expand_more
Dutch Resistance Falls Short:
Chasing a daunting target, the Netherlands showed early promise. Michael Levitt (31) and Max O’Dowd (11) provided a brisk start, but the required run rate proved too steep. Scott Edwards (31) fought valiantly, but regular wickets stifled the Dutch chase. The Netherlands were eventually bowled out for 118 in 16.4 overs, falling well short of the Sri Lankan total.expand_more
Nuwan Thushara (3/24), Wanindu Hasaranga (2/25), and Matheesha Pathirana (2/12) were the standout performers for Sri Lanka with the ball. Their accurate bowling and variations proved too much for the Dutch batsmen.
Key Moments and Match Highlights:
- Asalanka’s power-hitting: His blistering knock, including five sixes, changed the complexion of the match and propelled Sri Lanka towards a massive total.
- Mathews’ quickfire innings: His 30 runs off just 15 deliveries provided crucial momentum in the middle overs.
- Hasaranga’s late assault: His explosive cameo at the death overs ensured Sri Lanka crossed the 200-run mark.
- Thushara’s early breakthroughs: His three wickets pegged the Netherlands back in the chase and set the tone for Sri Lanka’s victory.expand_more
Match Summary:
- Sri Lanka: 201/7 (20 overs)
- Kusal Mendis 46, Charith Asalanka 46, Dhananjaya de Silva 34
- Logan van Beek 2/45
- Netherlands: 118 all out (16.4 overs)
- Michael Levitt 31, Scott Edwards 31
- Nuwan Thushara 3/24, Wanindu Hasaranga 2/25
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 83 runsexpand_more
- Player of the Match: Charith Asalanka
Looking Ahead:
While Sri Lanka’s victory did not alter their tournament fate, it provided a positive end to their T20 World Cup campaign. For the Netherlands, this loss marked the end of their journey, but they showcased glimpses of their potential during the tournament.expand_more
This match served as a reminder of the unpredictable and exciting nature of T20 cricket, where a single innings can turn the tide. Sri Lanka’s dominant performance showcased their batting firepower, while the Netherlands will look to learn from their mistakes and come back stronger in future tournaments.
Detailed Scorecard:
Did not bat: M Theekshana, N Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana Fall of wickets: 0-1 (Pathum Nissanka, 0.2), 39-2 (Kamindu Mendis, 5.2), 84-3 (Kusal Mendis, 11.1), 123-4 (Dhananjaya de Silva, 14.4), 166-5 (Asalanka, 17.3), 166-6 (Shanaka, 17.4)
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Detailed Scorecard:
Did not bat: Fall of wickets: 45-1 (Max ODowd, 4.3), 47-2 (Michael Levitt, 5.5), 62-3 (Vikramjit Singh, 7.3), 68-4 (Sybrand Engelbrecht, 8.3), 71-5 (Bas de Leede, 9.4), 71-6 (Logan van Beek, 9.5), 82-7 (Tim Pringle, 11.5), 99-8 (Aryan Dutt, 14.1), 117-9 (Scott Edwards, 16.2), 118-10 (Paul van Meekeren, 16.4)
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