Charith Asalanka's batting heroics have been backed up by a fine bowling display, as Sri Lanka comfortably beat West Indies by 20 runs to knock the holders out of the Twenty20 World Cup.
For the first time since 2010, West Indies - winners in 2012 and 2016 - have failed to reach the semi-finals of the competition. Sri Lanka were already out of contention to make the last four.
Chasing 190, West Indies lost openers Chris Gayle (1) and Evin Lewis (8) within the first two overs, and failed to overcome the early setbacks, as the Sri Lankan bowlers picked up regular wickets at Abu Dhabi.
Fighting knocks from Nicholas Pooran (46) and Shimron Hetmyer (81 not out) kept them in the game, but the Sri Lankans had enough runs on the board, as the Windies ended on 169/8.
Earlier, the experienced Kusal Perera (29) got Sri Lanka off to a brisk start, consolidated by a superb 91-run stand between the in-form duo of Pathum Nissanka (51) and Asalanka (68).
Asalanka was particularly severe on the Windies fast bowlers, striking eight fours and a six en route to his second T20 fifty before captain Dasun Shanaka's quickfire cameo of 25 propelled Sri Lanka to a total of 189-3.
"Overall, it's a very good victory. These youngsters have been working hard, so I'm really happy. The batsmen were brilliant and the bowling was also brilliant throughout the tournament," said Shanaka.
"I knew that they (Asalanka and Nissanka) have the potential. I think the team is going in the right direction at the moment."
On Sunday, the West Indies end their campaign against Australia, who have thrashed Bangladesh by eight wickets to boost their semi-final hopes in Friday's second match of the tournament.
Australia's quicks wrecked Bangladesh's top order, before leg-spinner Adam Zampa (5/19) ran amok with the ball to skittle out their opponents for a paltry 73 in 15 overs.
Aaron Finch smashed 40 off 20 balls, as Australia romped home in 6.2 overs for their third win in four matches, while Bangladesh ended their Super 12 campaign losing all five matches.
Australia must beat West Indies to have any chance of reaching the semi-finals behind group leaders England, who are effectively in the last four after winning all four matches so far.
Reuters.
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