Windies bounce back with win over SL inspired by Hope: 1st T20 (Jamaica)

Shai Hope was the star as West Indies made a winning start to the T20I series, bouncing back from their ODI disappointment with a seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka at Sabina Park.

After opting to bat first, Sri Lanka struggled to establish momentum against a disciplined West Indies attack and were restricted to 147/9 from their 20 overs. While several batters made useful starts, regular wickets prevented the visitors from building the substantial total they were targeting.

The chase was anchored by captain Shai Hope, who produced a composed unbeaten 65 from 54 deliveries to steer the hosts towards their target. Rovman Powell provided valuable late support as West Indies reached 149/3 with four balls remaining, securing a comfortable victory and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The result underlined the Caribbean side’s strength in the shortest format and offered the perfect response after their recent ODI setback.

West Indies 149 for 3 (Hope 65*, King 37, Hasaranga 2-32) beat Sri Lanka 147 for 9 (Kamindu 51, Holder 3-18, Joseph 3-29) by seven wickets.

June 2026.