Rutherford and Holder power West Indies to thrilling series victory over Sri Lanka

Chalien Dantes / Contributor

The West Indies pulled off a five-wicket victory with just two balls remaining in the deciding third match against Sri Lanka on Sunday, June 14th.

With the chase hanging in the balance, Sherfane Rutherford held his nerve, finishing unbeaten on 54 and reaching his half-century in the final over. He received explosive support from Jason Holder, who blasted three sixes in a stunning late assault to guide the hosts to 170-5 in pursuit of Sri Lanka’s 169.

Sri Lanka’s hopes were hurt by two dropped catches that gave Rutherford crucial lifelines during his match-winning innings.

Earlier, after choosing to bowl first, the West Indies were inspired by a brilliant spell from Shamar Joseph. The fast bowler ripped through the Sri Lankan batting lineup, claiming five wickets and earning Player of the Match honours.

Sri Lanka got off to a bright start before Joseph struck twice in one over to halt their momentum. Despite a fighting 43 from Dunith Wellalage and useful contributions lower down the order, the visitors were restricted to 169.

The West Indies chase got off to a shaky start after an early wicket and later suffered a collapse that saw three wickets fall for just one run. However, Rutherford and Rovman Powell rebuilt the innings with a crucial partnership that kept the target within reach.

A chaotic 17th over that leaked 24 runs swung the contest back in favour of the home side before Holder’s late fireworks all but sealed the result. Needing six runs from the final over, the West Indies crossed the line to seal the series after the first two matches had been split.

The victory gives the Caribbean side the edge in the T20 contest after Sri Lanka had taken the earlier ODI series, which was heavily affected by rain. The two teams will meet again in a two-match Test series beginning on June 25th  in Antigua.