Sri Lanka ended their 2024 T20 World Cup campaign in spectacular fashion with a dominant 83-run win over the Netherlands in Gros Islet. Despite missing out on the Super Eight, Sri Lanka’s performance in this final match showcased their potential and resilience. This article delves into the key moments and standout performances that defined the match.
Losing Pathum Nissanka early in the innings could have set Sri Lanka back, but their batsmen showed commendable composure. The powerplay phase was marked by strategic strike rotation rather than aggressive boundary hitting, resulting in a modest but steady 45 runs for the loss of two wickets.
As the innings progressed, the importance of consistent running between the wickets became apparent. By the tenth over, Sri Lanka had accumulated 74 runs for the loss of two wickets, maintaining a healthy run rate despite a lack of frequent boundaries. A late-inning rally was made possible by this strategy.
The pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s innings arrived in the 13th over as Dhananjaya de Silva seized control. His aggressive approach against Paul van Meekeren, hitting three consecutive boundaries, shifted the momentum significantly. This sudden acceleration was crucial on a ground where high scores had been chased down recently.
From the 13th to the 20th over, Sri Lanka’s batsmen went on the offensive. They scored 77 runs in the final five overs, with Asalanka, Mathews, and Hasaranga all contributing crucial runs. The Dutch bowlers struggled with their lengths, often delivering either too full or too short, which the Sri Lankan batsmen capitalized on effectively. This explosive finish resulted in a challenging total of 202 runs.
In response, the Netherlands faced an uphill battle from the start. Young Michael Levitt, despite his inexperience, briefly shone with a 23-ball 31. His confident stroke play, including a notable six off Theekshana, highlighted his potential. Yet, his departure late in the powerplay, coupled with Max O’Dowd’s subsequent dismissal, left the Netherlands in a vulnerable position.
The middle order struggled to find stability, with wickets tumbling at frequent intervals. Vikramjit Singh’s departure, caught by Kamindu Mendis after a juggling effort, epitomized the Netherlands’ struggle. Sybrand Engelbrecht showed some resistance with a six off Hasaranga, but his attempt to replicate it against Pathirana led to his downfall.
Nuwan Thushara was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, claiming 3 for 24. Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dasun Shanaka, and Matheesha Pathirana each chipped in with crucial wickets, ensuring the Netherlands never recovered from their early setbacks.
Sri Lanka’s batting was anchored by the middle order, with Asalanka, Mathews, and Hasaranga making significant contributions. Their ability to accelerate in the final overs was instrumental in setting an imposing total. This balanced performance highlighted both their batting depth and bowling prowess.
Sri Lanka – 201/6 (20.0)
Netherlands – 118/ (16.4)
Result – Sri Lanka won by 83 Runs
Player of the match – Charith Asalanka
Charith Asalanka
Sri Lanka | Angelo Mathews, Matheesha Pathirana, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Dhananjaya de Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka, Nuwan Thushara, Kusal Mendis |
Netherlands | Vivian Kingma, Paul van Meekeren, Aryan Dutt, Tim Pringle, Logan van Beek, Bas de Leede, Scott Edwards (c), Sybrand Engelbrecht, Vikramjit Singh, Max O’Dowd, Michael Levitt |
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