Kusal Mendis stars in Sri Lanka's clinical win Sri Lanka delivered a commanding performance in the opening One Day International (ODI) of their tour of the West Indies, with Kusal Mendis leading the charge in a clinical display that saw his team comfortably surpass the 300-run mark. Mendis, who was handed the captaincy for the tour, showcased his batting prowess with a sparkling 72 off 62 balls, including four fours and four sixes. His innings, combined with contributions from opener Pathum Nissanka and a resilient middle order, set the stage for a dominant total. The West Indies, despite a strong start, were ultimately outclassed, falling short by 41 runs in their chase. Mendis’s innings was marked by aggressive strokeplay and a fearless approach. He quickly settled into his rhythm, smashing Gudakesh Motie for a six early in his innings and following it up with a series of boundaries. His ability to rotate the strike and maintain a high run rate was crucial in pushing Sri Lanka past the 300-run mark. Nissanka, who scored 79, provided solid support, while Kamindu Mendis, the opener, contributed with a quick start before being dismissed early. The middle order, including Charith Asalanka (45) and Janith Liyanage (unbeaten 44), ensured Sri Lanka maintained their momentum, finishing at 303/7. The West Indies struggled to match Sri Lanka’s intensity in the run chase. John Campbell and Justin Greaves initially looked dangerous, with the latter hitting a series of boundaries and a six off Asitha Fernando. However, the hosts quickly regained control after a run-out disrupted the early momentum. Maheesh Theekshana, making his ODI debut, played a key role in containing the scoring rate, dismissing Greaves and later restricting the West Indies’ progress.#sri_lanka #west_indies #pathum_nissanka #maheesh_theekshana #kusal_mendis
PSL 11: Hyderabad Kingsmen Target Maheesh Theekshana as Baartman Replacement Debutant franchise Hyderabad Kingsmen are exploring options to replace South African fast bowler Ottniel Baartman for the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), set to begin on 26 March. Sources indicate the team has reached out to Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana, though his participation hinges on obtaining a No-Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket. Baartman, who was acquired by the Kingsmen during the inaugural PSL auction in Lahore on 11 February for PKR 1.1 crore, has withdrawn from the tournament without providing a reason. Neither the player nor the franchise has clarified the circumstances of his absence. Theekshana, a seasoned T20 international, has represented Sri Lanka in 83 matches, taking 82 wickets at an economy rate of 7.08. His inclusion would bolster the Kingsmen’s bowling attack ahead of the tournament. The 11th PSL edition will feature eight teams, including new entrants Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindi, with 44 matches scheduled over 39 days. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has scaled back its plans, confirming matches will be held at only two venues and played behind closed doors. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced the revised format at a media conference, citing discussions with franchise owners and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Initially, six cities—Multan, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore—were considered as host venues. The tournament has now been consolidated to Karachi and Lahore, marking a significant shift from the original plans. The decision reflects ongoing logistical and security challenges amid the evolving circumstances. The PSL’s reduced format has also impacted other teams.#pakistan_cricket_board #shehbaz_sharif #hyderabad_kingsmen #maheesh_theekshana #ottniel_baartman
