Sri Lanka is poised to continue its winning streak in a three-match ODI series against the West Indies, with captain Charith Asalanka emphasizing the team’s reliance on its potent spin attack. The island nation has enjoyed a remarkable run of success, claiming victory in 10 out of 13 bilateral series this year, including a dominant eight wins out of nine on home soil. Sri Lanka’s spinners have emerged as the team’s trump card, playing a crucial role in their historic series win against top-ranked India in July. This formidable spin unit has ended a 27-year drought against the Indian team.
“Spin is our bread and butter, and we’re going to play to our strengths,” Asalanka asserted ahead of Sunday’s series opener. The Sri Lankan captain outlined his spin options, confirming the inclusion of leg-spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Jeffrey Vandersay, along with the promising Dunith Wellalage. The team also has the flexibility to employ some spin from their batting ranks.
The three ODIs will be contested on the slow surface of Pallekele, a venue where spin is anticipated to play a pivotal role, similar to its dominance in Sri Lanka’s recent 2-1 T20 series victory over the West Indies earlier in the tour. “The spinners were exceptional there, and I’m confident they’ll be a handful again here,” Asalanka confidently stated.
Both teams are eager to rebound from their disappointment of failing to qualify for the Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan next February. Both Sri Lanka and the West Indies are laser-focused on improving their rankings to secure their positions and avoid the threat of elimination.
“We’ve got to make sure we’re playing good cricket and keeping ourselves in the top half so we don’t find ourselves scrambling to qualify again,” West Indies captain Shai Hope emphasized. While acknowledging the significant influence of spin, Hope expressed his team’s readiness to confront the challenge. “We’ll take what the pitch offers, and while it’s good to have a plan, you’ve got to play what’s in front of you,” he said.
All eyes will be on Jewel Andrew of Antigua, a prodigious West Indian talent set to make his debut at the young age of 17 years and 318 days, becoming the team’s youngest ever debutant. “He’s a really exciting prospect for us, no doubt about it. I’ve no doubt that if he gets the chance, he’ll grab it with both hands,” Hope expressed his confidence in the young prodigy.
The remaining two matches of the series are scheduled for Wednesday and Saturday.