The first match between Sri Lanka and West Indies in Pallekele saw the return of Andre Russell after an 18-month hiatus and Lasith Malinga welcomed the Jamaican all-rounder back to T20I cricket in his own style.
Bowling in the 16th over of Windies innings on Wednesday Malinga bowled one right at the base of the off-stump which proved too good for Russell who was striking the ball at 226.37.
Dre Russ, who was smashing the Lankan bowlers at will, raced to 35 off just 14 balls but could not get his bat down in time despite knowing what to expect.
Here’s the video:
https://twitter.com/SanjuRo45_/status/1235215038069305344
Riding on the back of a power-packed batting performance, West Indies posted a mammoth 196/4 on the board – their highest score in T20Is against Sri Lanka.
Tasked with chasing a target of 197, Sri Lanka folded for 171 with Windies fast bowler Oshane Thomas taking five wickets and thus being declared player of the match.
#SLvWI Oshane Thomas with his brilliant bowling performance is the 3rd best in WI T20I history!!👏🏽 #MenInMaroon #ItsOurGame pic.twitter.com/Jx8trA4j4d
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) March 4, 2020