KINGSTON, June 4 (H.S.): Sri Lanka began their West Indies tour on a strong note, registering a 41-run victory in the first One-Day International on Wednesday night. Returning as captain, Kusal Mendis led from the front with a fluent half-century, while the bowlers successfully defended the target to secure a comprehensive win.

Batting first, Sri Lanka made a cautious start, although Pathum Nissanka received an early reprieve and made full use of the opportunity. At the other end, Kusal Mendis took time to settle before accelerating the scoring and providing momentum to the innings.

Mendis particularly targeted spinner Gudakesh Motie, striking several boundaries and building a crucial partnership with Nissanka. He scored a brisk 72 off 62 deliveries. The partnership between Mendis and Nissanka put Sri Lanka in a commanding position.

Nissanka went on to score 79, while contributions from the middle order, including Charith Asalanka (45) and Janith Liyanage (44 not out), helped Sri Lanka reach 303/7 in their 50 overs.

In reply, West Indies made a brisk start with John Campbell and Justin Greaves playing attacking strokes early on, but a run-out disrupted their momentum. Sri Lanka’s bowlers then applied consistent pressure.

Maheesh Theekshana dismissed Greaves to bring Sri Lanka back into the contest, while Wanindu Hasaranga struck a key blow in the middle order. West Indies captain Shai Hope fought valiantly with a 56-run knock, but lacked support from the other end.

In the end, Dushmantha Chameera produced an excellent spell, taking four wickets as West Indies were bowled out for 262 in 49.2 overs.

Brief scores: Sri Lanka 303/7 (50 overs) — Pathum Nissanka 79, Kusal Mendis 72; Matthew Forde 2/44. West Indies 262 all out (49.2 overs) — Shai Hope 56; Dushmantha Chameera 4/67, Maheesh Theekshana 2/26.

Result: Sri Lanka won by 41 runs.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar