West Indies Opt to Bowl in Final ODI Against Sri Lanka; Jewel Andrew Makes Debut
The pitch is freshly prepared, with boundaries of 69 and 71 meters and slower, but turning conditions expected throughout the game. Cooler evening temperatures might help the ball slide on, though rain remains a possibility.
West Indies won the toss and elected to bowl in the third ODI against Sri Lanka at Pallekele. Although Sri Lanka leads the series 2-0, this marks the first match where they’ll be batting first on a spin-friendly pitch.
Sri Lanka introduced two changes, welcoming back opener Pathum Nissanka and seamer Dilshan Madushanka in place of Nishan Madushka and Dunith Wellalage. Captain Charith Asalanka praised Madushka's impressive maturity in his earlier performances, expressing confidence in his potential to contribute significantly in future games.
West Indies made three adjustments of their own, bringing in debutant Jewel Andrew, experienced batter Evin Lewis—returning to ODIs for the first time since 2021—and fast-bowler Matthew Forde. Replaced in the lineup are Alick Athanaze, Romario Shepherd, and Hayden Walsh. Andrew’s debut at just 17 marks an exciting addition to the team’s batting strength.
The pitch is freshly prepared, with boundaries of 69 and 71 meters and slower, but turning conditions expected throughout the game. Cooler evening temperatures might help the ball slide on, though rain remains a possibility.
Playing XIs:
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Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (capt), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando.
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West Indies: Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Shai Hope (capt, wk), Keacy Carty, Jewel Andrew, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph, Matthew Forde.
