Shamar Joseph five-wicket burst gives West Indies T20 series win over Sri Lanka

West Indies claimed a 2-1 T20 International series victory over Sri Lanka on Sunday night, defeating the visitors by five wickets in the deciding match at Sabina Park.

Fast bowler Shamar Joseph produced his best T20 International figures, taking 5-33 as Sri Lanka were dismissed for 169. Joseph was especially decisive in the final over, where he removed three batters while giving up just five runs. Among his victims was Dunith Wellalage, who led Sri Lanka’s scoring with 43. Kusal Mendis added 28 and Pathum Nissanka made 26, while each of the other four West Indies bowlers used also picked up a wicket.

West Indies replied with 170-5, reaching the target with two balls remaining. Sherfane Rutherford anchored the chase with an unbeaten 54, striking three fours and four sixes. Jamaica’s Rovman Powell supported with 33, Shimron Hetmyer scored 32, and Brandon King, also of Jamaica, made 16. Jason Holder then changed the late momentum with 21 from five deliveries, including three sixes in the 19th over from Dushmantha Chameera. Wanindu Hasaranga finished with 2-17 for Sri Lanka.

Joseph, who ended the three-match series with 11 wickets, was named both player of the match and player of the series. “It’s exciting for me. My first five-wicket haul in T20. Couldn’t ask anything better,” he said, adding that Jamaica’s support helped lift the team. He said bowling the 18th and 20th overs is among the hardest duties in T20 cricket, but he enjoys taking responsibility at that stage.

Head coach Daren Sammy welcomed West Indies’ first home T20 series win since October 2024, while noting that improvement is still needed. He said players must continue sharpening their execution and developing key skills.

The two teams now move into a two-match Test series, which is scheduled to start on June 25 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.