After a big defeat in the opening game, the hosts kept themselves alive in the three-match T20I series as Dunith Wellalage and Charith Asalanka helped their side put up a stunning bowling performance to level the series 1-1.

Ahead of the series decider, here are our match preview and predictions.

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Sri Lanka vs West Indies 3rd T20I | West Indies tour of Sri Lanka 2024 | 19:00 IST, October 17

After electing to bat first, it was Pathum Nissanka anchoring the innings on a slow and turning Dambulla wicket that helped the hosts get to 162/5, with Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Kamindu Mendis all getting starts but failing to capitalise. With the ball, though, the hosts were clinical as the young Dunith Wellalage spun a web around the West Indian batters and was supported well by Wandindu Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka as Mahesh Theekshana closed things out. Sri Lanka ultimately bundled the Windies out for a paltry 89, helping themselves to a massive 73-run win. 

For the visitors, on the other hand, it was an average performance with the ball as they would’ve expected themselves to restrict Sri Lanka to around 150. Perera and Hasaranga’s blows hurt them a bit, but it was a complete batting failure from the Caribbean collective; barring some late runs from Rovman Powell and Alzarri Joseph, none of their batters got going. 

Heading into the series decider, it will be the hosts and their spinners with the advantage in Dambulla once again. Expect Sri Lanka to complete the reverse sweep and win the series. 

Fantasy XI: Pathum Nissanka, Evin Lewis, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Roston Chase, Rovman Powell, Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, Romario Shepherd, Dunith Wellalage, Gudakesh Motie

Venue: Dambulla
Winners Prediction: Sri Lanka