Ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Mumbai Indians (MI) have suffered a major setback. Afghanistan’s young spin sensation, Allah Ghazanfar, has been ruled out of the upcoming cricketing action due to a major injury. The 18-year-old youngster who has played 1 Test, 11 ODIs, and 19 T20Is for his national side will be unable to play in the Champions Trophy 2025 and IPL in the coming season. The developments have sent shockwaves in the cricketing community, raising? concerns for MI, who now have a major task of finding a suitable replacement for Ghazanfar.

A major fracture ruled Allah Ghazanfar out of action

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced that Ghazanfar suffered a fractu??re in his L4 vertebra during the recent tour of Zimbabwe. The injury is a significant setback for the young cricketer, potentially sidelining him for an extended period as he und??ergoes recovery and rehabilitation.

“Afghanistan’s young spin-bowling sensation, AM Ghazanfar, has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy due to a fracture in the L4 vertebra, specifically in the left pars interarticular. He sustained the injury during Afghanistan’s recently held tour Zimbabwe and will be sidelined for a minimum of four months and will remain under treatment during this period. Nangyal Kharoti, who was part of the reserves pool, has been promoted to the main squad for the Champions Trophy. Additionally, Mujeeb Ur Rahman continues to miss the ODI action, until he has fully recovered,” a statement from ACB read.

Ghazanfar entered the IPL mega auctions with a base price of INR 75 Lakhs. However, MI bought the spin wizard for a staggering INR 4.80 crore. The development now makes MI’s spin attack vulnerable to attack from rival batting units during the tournament. A suitable replacement for Ghazanfar is thus crucial ??to the team’s prospects in the upcoming IPL season. Given Ghazanfar’s latest injury, here are three potential replacements for him in the MI squad.

3 potential replacements for Allah Ghazanfar in the MI squad

(1) Roston Chase:

MI can replace Ghazanfar with someone who can be a handy option with the bat, apart from adding depth to the team’s spin unit. In this regard, Roston Chase is a prominent name who has gone unsold in the IPL auction and has proven his worth playing for the West Indies and several franchises he has represented during his career. The 32-year-old can add league cricket experience to the team as he has clinched 73 wickets in 110 T20 matches he has?? pl??ayed so far.

Also Read: Afghanistan’s spin sensation Allah Ghazanfar ruled out?? of Champions Trophy 2025; replacement announced

(2) Keshav Maharaj:

Keshav Maharaj is another notable player who has gone unsold in the IPL auction. The seasoned South African spinner was in action recently as the skipper of Durban Super Giants in the SA20 2025 and carved out some impressive perform??ances with the bowl, even though his team could not perform well in the tournament. The 35-year-old is a dynamic off-spinner with experience to adapt according to the needs of the game and the team he is playing for. His record in T20s is also impressive. Th??e Proteas spin maestro has taken 162 wickets in 191 T20 matches he has played so far.

(3) Adil Rashid:

Adil Rashid is a regular starter for England in the T20I format and is well-versed in bowling in sub-continent conditions and getting his team breakthroughs during crucial juncture?s of the match. His experience and versatility with the bowl can thus be of great value to MI given they chose him as a replacement for Ghazanfar.

The 36-year-old has featured in several league tournaments such as the ILT20, SA20, The Hundred Men’s Competition, and Big Bash League (BBL). He has also been a part of Punjab Super Kings (PBKS) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the past. However, his association with the two IPL fran?chises has not bee?n long.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Is Virat?? Kohli returning as RCB captain? ??COO Rajesh Menon clears speculation

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Cricket has the potential to bring out all kinds of emotions in both fans and players. While unfortunate incidents are part and parcel of the game, a rare accident occurred involving two Bangladeshi batters during the third T20I against West Indies. The confusion that followed afte??r the ru?n-out added fuel to the fire and a player was called back by the umpires from the pavilion to bat once again. 

A horrendous mix-up leaves the two batters startled

The incident occurred during the 15th over of the Bangladeshi innings with Jaker Ali and Shamim Hossain on the crease and Roston Chase bowling the third delivery of the over. Ali flicked the ball and charged for a quick run to come back for a second. However, Shamim was relatively slow to react as he saw wicket-keeper Nicholas Pooran collecting the ball and throwing it to Chase on the non-striker’s’ end. Clandestinely, he told Ali to stop running for the second run but by that time Ali had gone too far. Ali kept on running towards the striker’s end and managed to reach the crease. However, with no batter reaching the other end of the crease Chase hit the bails. 

Also WATCH: Akeal Hosein cleans up Tanzid Hasan with his clever sp?in bowling in the W??I vs BAN 2024 1st T20I

Thinking that Shamim’s bat had touche??d the ground before him, Ali walked out of the ground furious with the run-out. However a replay of the whole mix-up revealed that Shamim’s bat was in fact in mid-air by the time Ali reached the striker’s end. Therefore, the umpires ultimately ruled Shamim as the one run-out by Chase. Ali was called upon from the Bangladeshi dressing room to resume batting. 

Here’s the video: 

😵‍💫A comedy of errors leads to a run out 🏏#WIvBAN | #WIHomeForChristmas pic.twitter.com/8pWJXaTRG2

— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) December 20, 2024

Fate saved Ali to shine against the Caribbeans 

Ali’s dismissal might have saved West Indies from a humiliating defeat in the final T20I of the three-match series. He was playing on 17 runs i??n 16 deliveries. However, with the luck favouring him, Ali went on to score an emphatic 72-run knock off 41 balls. His contribution hel??ped Bangladesh put a competitive total on board which the home team failed to chase down and ended up losing the match. 

Also WATC?H: Sherfane Rutherford hits a bullseye to run out Mehidy Hasan Miraz in the WI vs BAN ??3rd ODI

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During the first One-Day International (ODI) between West Indies and Bangladesh at Warner Park, Basseterre, St. Kitts, an outstanding fielding effort by Roston Chase became the highlight of the day. Windies all-rounder Chase took a spectacular catch to dismiss Bangladesh opener Tanzid Hasan, who was looking dangerous.

Roston Chase’s spectacular catch stuns Tanzid Hasan

The dismissal came in the 24th over of the innings, breaking the momentum of the visitors as West Indie right-arm fast bowler Alzarri Joseph bowled a short delivery outside off-stump. Tanzi??d batting on 60, attempted a cut shot but mistimed it. The ball flew in the air, and Chase who was positioned at point executed a well-judged catch to send Tanzid back to the pavilion. The wicket was crucial, coming against the run of play, and signalled a turning point in the match. Tanzid, who had struck six fours and three six??es, looked visibly disappointed as Bangladesh lost their third wicket.

Here is the video:

An important wicket 🏏wrapped up and put under the tree! 🎄#WIvBAN | #WIHomeForChristmas pic.twitter.com/DMrBPXQD4F

— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) December 8, 2024

Though Joseph’s bowling may not have grabbed the limelight, his contributions proved instrumental. The pacer finished with figures of 2 wickets in his 10-over spell. Besides dismissing Tanzid, Joseph also accounted for Soumya Sarkar earlier in the innings, removing the other opener for 19 runs. His early breakthroughs provided the West I?ndies with the foundation to restrict Bangladesh’s progress.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Sherfane Rutherford’s maiden ODI ton end??s West Indies�?11-game losing streak to Bangladesh

Sherfane Rutherford shines in West Indies’ chase 

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh managed to put up a fighting total of 294/6 in their allotted 50 overs. Skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz led from the front with a composed knock of 74 runs. Romario Shepherd was the pick of the bowle??rs for the West Indies, claiming three wickets in his spell.

In response, the West Indies showcased a clinical batting display and chased down the target in 47.4 overs with 5 wickets in hand. Sherfane Rutherford emerged as th??e hero of the match, scoring a magnificent century that anchored the innings. His brilliant perform?ance earned him the Player of the Match award.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: 3 changes India should make for the ??Gabba Test after Adelaide setback

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After suffering back-to-back defeats against England in the first two T20Is of the ongoing five-match series, the West Indies are gearing up for a crucial third encounter. Scheduled for Thursday, November 14, ?at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St. Lucia, the third match marks the beginning of a make-or-break phase for the hosts. The remaining matches will ??also be held at the same venue, giving the team a chance to regroup and leverage familiar conditions.

Do or die: A must-win scenario for the West Indies

England’s seven-wicket victory in the second match at the Kensington Oval gave them a commanding 2-0 series lead. For the West Indies, another loss would mean co??nceding the series with two games to ?spare. With everything on the line, the team has made several strategic adjustments to their lineup, hoping to stage a comeback.

Key all-rounder Andre Russell has been ruled out of the series after sustaining a left ankle sprain in the opening game. Shamar Springer, a versatile all-rounder, has been called in as his replacement. Additionally, fast bowler Alzarri Joseph is set to rejoin the squad after serving a suspension during the first two matches. Joseph’s inclusion bolsters the bowling attack, replacing Shamar Joseph, and adds a much-needed ed?ge to the pace department.

Also READ: Andre Russell out as West Indies an??nounce squad for remaining 3 T20Is against England

West Indies�?best starting XI for the remaining three T20Is against England

1. Rovman Powell (Captain)

• Role: Middle-Order Batter
• Strength: Known for his aggressive approach and tactical acumen, Powell leads from the front. His ability to counter England’s bowling attack early in the innings is vital.
• Impact: As captain, Powell’s performance sets the tone for the team, and his middle-order contributions can shift momentum in West Indies’ favor.

2. Brandon King

• Role: Opener
• Strength: King brings a blend of powerful stroke play and finesse, adept at tackling pace and spin alike.
• Impact: Explosive starts from King can lay the foundation for a competitive total, making him a linchpin in the batting order.

3. Evin Lewis

• Role: Opener
• Strength: A reliable top-order batter, Lewis excels in rotating strikes and accelerating the innings when required.
• Impact: His adaptability ensures stability at the top, while his power-hitting can provide the early aggression needed against England’s bowlers.

4. Shimron Hetmyer

• Role: Middle-Order Batter
• Strength: Hetmyer thrives in high-pressure scenarios, offering finishing prowess and smart shot selection.
• Impact: His ability to anchor or accelerate in death overs adds depth to the batting lineup.

5. Shai Hope

• Role: Middle-Order Batter
• Strength: A fearless batter, Hope’s boundary-hitting ability during the middle overs can change the game’s dynamics.
• Impact: Hope’s consistency and firepower make him a potential game-changer for the West Indies.

6. Nicholas Pooran

• Role: Wicketkeeper-Batter
• Strength: Pooran combines his wicketkeeping skills with a knack for finishing innings under pressure.
• Impact: His explosive batting and sharp reflexes behind the stumps are invaluable assets to the team.

7. Shamar Springer

• Role: All-Rounder
• Strength: Springer’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds much-needed balance.
• Impact: His medium-fast bowling and aggressive lower-order batting make him a key player in crunch moments.

8. Roston Chase

• Role: All-Rounder
• Strength: Chase offers dependable spin bowling and stabilizing batting in the middle overs.
• Impact: As an experienced campaigner, he provides maturity and control, essential in high-stakes matches.

9. Akeal Hosein

• Role: Spin Bowler
• Strength: Hosein’s sharp turn and deceptive variations could exploit England’s middle-order weaknesses.
• Impact: A leading spin option, he brings variety to the bowling attack and control in crucial phases.

10. Alzarri Joseph

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Strength: Joseph’s swing and pace make him a strike bowler capable of dismantling England’s opening pair.
• Impact: His ability to secure early breakthroughs can set the tone for the bowling unit.

11. Romario Shepherd

• Role: Fast Bowling All-rounder
• Strength: Shepherd’s death-over expertise and pinpoint yorkers make him a key weapon against England’s finishers.
• Impact: His speed and accuracy can help contain runs and deliver match-turning wickets.

Also READ: 5 teams that can target Mark W?ood in the IPL 2025 mega auction

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West Indies are gearing up for an exciting ODI series against England at home, with a strong squad looking to make an impact in the 50-overs format. The series will offer a prime opportunity for the West Indies to showcase their skills against a well-established English side and make a comeback after a tough series loss against Sri Lanka. With matches lined up at Antigua’s Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, fans will be eager to see how the hosts leverage their home advantage.

Shimron Hetmyer’s returns adds firepower

Shai Hope, who has consistently been one of the team’s most reliable batters, will lead the squad as captain, bringing both experience and calm leadership to the side. Hope’s presence at the top of the order is expected to provide stability, while the return of explosive batsman Shimron Hetmyer has bolstered the lineup, adding firepower and depth to the middle order. Hetmyer’s inclus?ion, after being away from the ODI setup for a while, brings fresh energy and will be vital for building competitive scores against England’s formidable bowling attack.

As the West Indies seek to establish themselves as a formidable ODI side, players like Alzarri Joseph and Roston Chase will also have crucial roles. Joseph, with his pace and early-wicket potential, will aim to create pressure in the powerplay, while Chase’s all-round capabilities are expected to add balance to the team. With a blend of young talent and experienced campaigne?rs, West Indies fans? are hopeful for a strong series showing, especially with a well-rounded lineup poised to challenge England.

Also READ: West Indies announces squad for the ODI series against England; Shimron Hetmyer r??e??turns

West Indies’ best playing XI for England ODIs

1. Shai Hope (Captain) – Wicketkeeper-batter

• Strength: A solid opener and experienced campaigner, Hope is known for his technique and consistency.
• Expectations: As captain, Hope will be expected to lead by example and provide stability at the top order, anchoring the innings with his calm, calculated approach.

2. Brandon King – Opener

• Strength: King is an aggressive batsman capable of attacking from the get-go.
• Expectations: His role is to capitalize on the powerplay and provide a quick start, setting a strong foundation for the middle order.

3. Shimron Hetmyer – Middle-order batter

• Strength: Known for his explosive hitting and ability to accelerate in the middle overs.
• Expectations: Returning to the ODI format, Hetmyer will be expected to score quick runs and shift the momentum during crucial middle-overs.

4. Keacy Carty – Middle-order batter

• Strength: Steady and reliable, Carty is known for rotating the strike and holding the innings together.
• Expectations: Carty’s role will be to support partnerships and provide stability in the middle order, allowing the hitters to play their shots.

5. Roston Chase – All-rounder

• Strength: A balanced all-rounder with effective off-spin and a steady batting style.
• Expectations: Chase will be crucial in the middle overs, both with the ball to contain runs and with the bat to stabilize the innings if early wickets fall.

6. Evin Lewis – Lower Middle-order batter

• Strength: Power hitter with a proven ability to finish games in the lower middle order.
• Expectations: Lewis’s aggressive style will be essential for West Indies in the death overs, adding quick runs and helping the team post competitive totals.

7. Romario Shepherd – All-rounder

• Strength: A pace-bowling all-rounder with good finishing abilities.
• Expectations: Shepherd will be expected to bowl crucial overs and contribute with big hits lower down the order, adding depth to both batting and bowling.

8. Gudakesh Motie – Left-arm spinner

• Strength: Known for his accuracy and ability to contain runs in the middle overs.
• Expectations: Motie’s spin will be crucial against England’s aggressive middle-order, and he will be tasked with controlling the run rate on slower surfaces.

9. Alzarri Joseph – Fast bowler

• Strength: Speed and swing, capable of striking early in the innings.
• Expectations: Leading the pace attack, Joseph will be relied upon for early breakthroughs and to control the powerplay overs.

10. Jayden Seales – Fast bowler

• Strength: Known for his pace and sharp bouncers.
• Expectations: Seales will support Joseph in the pace department, targeting England’s batters with his aggressive line and length, particularly in the middle overs.

11. Hayden Walsh Jr – leg spinner

• Strength: A wicket-taking leg spinner with variations that make him dangerous in limited-overs cricket.
• Expectations: Walsh’s ability to take wickets in the middle overs will be key, especially against England’s deep batting lineup.

Also READ: WI vs ENG 2024: England’s best p??laying XI?? for the ODI series against West Indies

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In the 1st ODI between Sri Lanka and West Indies at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (October 20), leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga showcased his brilliance by turning the match in Sri Lanka’s favour. West Indies had made a cautious start after opting to bat first, with openers Brandon King and Alick Athanaze adding 41 runs for the first wicket. Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka’s decision to introduce Hasaranga into the attack immediately paid off. The leg-spinner?? wreaked havoc, claiming both openers within a short span, setting the stage for a dominant display from the home team.

Wanindu Hasaranga’s fury unleashed after Brandon King’s dismissal

The crucial moment came when Hasaranga dismissed King in his very first over. King, known for his aggressive strokeplay, attempted to put pressure on the bowler with a slog sweep. However, Hasaranga’s expertly delivered googly, pitched around off and middle stump, spun sharply into King. The West Indies opener misjudged the trajectory and left a gap between his bat and pad, allowing the ball to sneak through and shatter the stumps. Hasaranga’s animated celebration, featuring a passionate fist pump, reflected the significance of the breakthrough in what was shaping up to be a high-voltage encounter.

Here’s the video:

Hasaranga Strikes 💥

The Lankan spinner effortlessly pierces through Brandon King’s defence 👌#SonySportsNetwork #SLvWI pic.twitter.com/zxlmfUZkOp

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) October 20, 2024

Also READ: Sri Lanka announces squad ??for the ODI series against West Indies; Charit?h Asalanka to lead

Sherfane Rutherford and Roston Chase lead West Indies’ recovery against Sri Lanka

After King’s dismissal, West Indies found themselves at 34/1 in the 8th over, putting pressure on the middle order. Alick Athanaze and Shai Hope failed to stabilize the innings, with both falling early, leavin?g?? the team in a tricky position at 54/3 by the 13th over. The spin duo of Hasaranga and Asalanka exploited the conditions well, each picking up key wickets.

Keacy Carty tried to anchor the innings with a patient knock of 37 off 58 balls, but his departure in the 26th over, caught by Wellalage off Asalanka, left the West Indies at 100/4, requiring a significant partnership. Sherfane Rutherford then took charge, playing a crucial knock of 74* off 82 balls, accelerating the scoring rate with a mixture of boundaries and aggressive running between the wickets. Supported by Roston Chase, who contributed a fluent 33* off 33 balls, the two helped West Indies rebuild and bring the score to 185/4 before rain interrupte??d play in the 39th over. The partnership between Rutherford and Chase brought much-needed stability to the innings, with their 85-run stand ensuring West Indies remained in a strong position despite earlier setbacks.

Also READ: SL vs ??WI, 2024: West Indies best playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

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After suffering a disappointing defeat in the T20I series against Sri Lanka, where they lost 2-1, the West Indies cricket team is now gearing up for the longer format of the game. The focus shifts to a three-match ODI series, which will take place at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. This change in format presents an opportunity for the West Indies to regroup and demonstrate th??eir?? prowess in One Day Internationals.

Aiming for redemption

Following their recent struggles in the T20I series, the West Indies enter the ODI format with renewed?? hope and determination. The team aims to secure victories in this series to rebuild confidence and assert themselves against the Sri Lankan side. Winnin?g the ODI series is essential for the Caribbean team, not only to regain their competitive edge but also to uplift team morale after the earlier setback.

Key players to watch in the West Indies squad

Shai Hope, the captain and wicketkeeper-batter, stands out as a pivotal figure in the West Indies lineup. Known for his explosive? batting style, Hope has consistently proven his capabilities in the ODI format. His leadership and ability to score runs under pressure will be crucial for the team as they seek to turn the tide in this series. Expect him to lead by example, guiding his teammates with both his performance and strategic insights.

Another key player to keep an eye on is Alzarri Joseph, one of the most formidable fast bowlers in the West Indies squad. Joseph’s aggressive playing style and ability to take crucial wickets can be game-changers in the ODI format. His speed and skill with the ball will be essential for the West Indies to assert dominance and create early breakthroughs against the Sri Lankan batsmen. As the series unfolds, Joseph’s performances will be vital in setting the tone for the West Indies’ campaign.

West Indies’ top-choice playing XI for the ODI series against Sri Lanka

1. Evin Lewis 

• Role: Opening Batter
• Position: Top Order
• Strength: Evin Lewis will take on the crucial responsibility of leading the West Indies as an opening batter. Renowned for his explosive batting style, Lewis has the unique ability to anchor the innings while also accelerating the scoring when necessary. His prowess in dominating bowlers, particularly in subcontinental conditions, positions him as a key player in setting a solid foundation for the team. The West Indies will rely on his aggressive yet composed approach to dictate the pace of the game from the outset.

2. Brandon King

• Role: Opening Batter
• Position: Top Order
• Strength: Brandon King has made a name for himself in recent outings, showcasing maturity and skill beyond his years. As Lewis’s opening partner, his primary role will be to complement Lewis by rotating the strike effectively and seizing scoring opportunities, especially against the new ball. King’s ability to support his senior partner while maintaining an aggressive mindset will be critical in establishing a strong start for the West Indies.

3. Shai Hope (C)

• Role: Wicket Keeper Batter
• Position: No. 3
• Strength: As captain and a pivotal member of the batting lineup, Hope is viewed as the backbone of the team’s batting order. His exceptional technique and capacity to construct meaningful innings make him a reliable option at No. 3. Hope’s skillful balance between defensive play and aggression will be vital in stabilizing the innings, especially in challenging situations where the team needs to rebuild.

4. Roston Chase 

• Role: Middle Order Batter
• Position: No. 4
• Strength: Chase’s presence in the middle order is invaluable for the West Indies. Known for his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations, Chase employs an aggressive yet calculated approach that can significantly shift momentum in favor of his team. His versatility allows him to adapt his game depending on the circumstances, making him a key asset in the batting lineup.

Also WATCH: West Indies exit the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 w??ith disappointment and tears

5. Sherfane Rutherford

• Role: All-rounder
• Position: Middle Order Batter
• Strength: Rutherford adds depth and stability to the middle order with his all-round capabilities. His flexibility allows him to transition seamlessly between defensive and aggressive batting styles based on the match situation. Rutherford’s ability to perform in both batting and bowling departments enhances the team’s overall balance and effectiveness.

6. Alick Athanaze

• Role: Batter
• Position: Middle Order Batter
• Strength: Known for his aggressive batting approach, Athanaze has the potential to alter the course of a game with his counter-attacking style, particularly against spinners. His fearless approach can create pressure on opposition bowlers and provide vital runs in the middle overs.

7. Gudakesh Motie

• Role: All-rounder
• Position: Bowling
• Strength: Motie is another key player whose all-round abilities contribute significantly to the team’s balance. Skilled with both bat and ball, Motie’s adaptability makes him a crucial asset in various match scenarios. His performance can influence both the batting depth and bowling attack, making him a pivotal figure for the West Indies.

8. Romario Shepherd

• Role: Bowler
• Position: All-rounder
• Strength: As West Indies’ leading fast bowler, Shepherd is known for his strategic thinking and clever variations. His capacity to outsmart batters with a mix of pace and skill will be essential in maintaining pressure on the opposition and securing wickets.

9. Hayden Walsh

• Role: Bowler
• Position: Spin Bowler
• Strength: Walsh brings a unique perspective to the bowling attack with his wrist-spin, complementing the finger spinners in the squad. His ability to turn the ball and create challenging angles adds a layer of variety to the West Indies�?bowling lineup, enhancing their overall effectiveness.

10. Alzarri Joseph

• Role: Bowler
• Position: Fast Bowler
• Strength: Joseph is expected to spearhead the pace attack with his express speed and precision. Renowned for his wicket-taking ability in diverse conditions, Joseph’s performance will be crucial for the West Indies�?success in the series.

11. Shamar Joseph

• Role: Bowler
• Position: Fast Bowler
• Strength: Emerging talent Joseph will look to make a significant impact with his pace and movement. As a young fast bowler, he is anticipated to support the experienced pace lineup, providing fresh energy and determination on the field.

Also READ: SL vs WI, 2024: Sri Lanka’s best playing XI for the O?DI series against West ??Indies

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Sri Lanka delivered a dominant performance to level the T20I series against West Indies, securing a commanding 73-run victory in the second match at Dambulla on Tuesday (October 15). The win was powered by the brilliance of debutant Dunith Wellalage, who spun a web around the West Indian batters. His standout performance, coupled with? contributions from other Sri Lankan spinners, proved decisive.

While Wellalage led the way, Sri Lanka’s seasoned spinners, Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka, played vital supporting roles in dismantling the West Indian lineup. Theekshana and Hasaranga, both known for their accuracy and variations, claimed two wicke??ts each, keeping the pressure on th??e opposition throughout the innings.

Dunith Wellalage ‘s three crucial wickets: Destroys West Indies’ top-order

Wellalage’s introduction to T20 International cricket couldn’t have been more impactful, as the young Sri Lankan spinner dismantled West Indies’ top order, claiming three wickets for just 9 runs in his 4-over spell. The 20-year-old bowled with incredible control and guile, outsmarting the West Indian batters on a turning pitch in Dambulla.

1. Brandon King (stumped by Kusal Mendis) Wellalage’s first T20I wicket came in the form of a well-set Brandon King. King charged down the wicket in an attempt to break the shackles but was outfoxed by Wellalage, who dragged the ball shorter. King, left stranded, allowed Kusal Mendis to easily whip off the bails, giving the young spinner his maiden wicket.
2. Andre Fletcher (caught by Kamindu Mendis) Pressure got the better of Andre Fletcher as he tried to sweep a well-flighted delivery from Wellalage. The ball took a top edge, and Kamindu Mendis at slip made no mistake, backpedaling to take a simple catch, further denting West Indies’ hopes of building a steady partnership.
3. Roston Chase (caught by Kusal Mendis) Wellalage completed his dream spell by removing Roston Chase. Tossing the ball up with tempting flight, he induced a drive from Chase, who nicked it straight to slip. The late dip in the delivery completely deceived Chase, highlighting Wellalage’s superb control over his variations.

Also ??WATCH: 4,?4,4,4,4 �?Pathum Nissanka brutally hammers Shamar Joseph in the 2nd T20I

Sri Lanka’s dominant victory over West Indies

Earlier Sri Lanka, after posting a competitive total of 162/5, thanks to Pathum Nissanka‘s patient 54 and Kusal Perera‘s brisk 24, their spinners stole the show. Wellalage (3/9) was the standout performer, ably supported by Theekshana, Hasaranga, and Asalanka, each chipping in with crucial wickets. West Indies never recovered, collapsing to 89 all out in just 16.1 overs. Despite their explosive lineup, they couldn’t find answers to Sri Lanka’s spin assault. Their top order faltered early, and the middle order crumbled under the mounting pressure, with key players like Johnson Charles and King falling cheaply. Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling, combined with sharp fielding, sealed the match comfortably.

Also READ: Pathum Niss?anka, Dunith Wellalage propel Sri Lanka to a series-leveling win over the West Indies in 2nd T20I

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The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 concluded with a thrilling final between Saint Lucia Kings (SLK) and Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) at Providence Stadium. Saint Lucia Kings emerged victorious by 6 wickets, thanks to a well-roun?ded team performance that kept the opposition at bay and led them to chase down the target comfortably in 18.1 ov?ers.

Guyana Amazon Warriors’ struggle for runs

After winning the toss, Saint Lucia Kings elected to bowl first, looking to put pressure on Guyana Amazon Warriors by restricting their batting lineup. Guyana Amazon Warriors found themselves in trouble early, losing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck in the very first over. The batting order struggled to gain momentum, with wickets falling at regular intervals. Moeen Ali tried to steady the innings but could only manage 14 runs off 20 balls. Shai Hope contributed with a cautious 22 off 24 balls, while Shimron Hetmyer and Keemo Paul also failed to get going.

The late surge from Dwaine Pretorius, who smashed 25 off just 12 deliveries, helped Guyana Amazon Warriors reach 138/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Romario Shepherd also chipped in with 19 runs off 9 balls, but it wasn’t enough to push the team to a challenging total. Noor Ahmad was the star for Saint Lucia Kings with the ball, bagging 3 wickets for 19 runs in his 4 overs, while Khary Pierre, Matthew Forde, Roston Chase, and David Wiese all picked up crucial wicke??ts to ke??ep the opposition under control.

Saint Lucia Kings chase comfortably despite early wobbles

Chasing 139 for victory, Saint Lucia Kings faced an early setback, losing Johnson Charles for just 7 runs. The pressure continued as Faf du Plessis, who scored 21 off 21 balls, and Ackeem Auguste (13 off 15) failed to anchor the innings. When Tim Seifert?? fell for just 3 runs, it seemed like the game could?? swing either way.

However, Chase and Aaron Jones came to the rescue for Saint Lucia Kings, constructing a steady partnership that took the game away from Guyana Amazon Warriors. Chase played a crucial knock of 39 off 22 balls, including two fours and two sixes, setting the tone for the chase. Aaron Jones followed with a match-winning 48 off 31 balls, blasting four sixes to seal the? victory with 11 balls to spare.

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Brilliant all-round performance by Roston Chase

Chase was named the Player of the Match for his all-round contribution with both bat and ball. His effective spell of 1 for 13 in 2 overs, along with a pivotal knock of 39 runs in the chase, made him a deserving recipient of the award. His efforts, along with Jones’ attacking batting, ensured that Saint Lucia Kings clinched the title in style.

Here is how fans reacted:

Congratulations to CPL Finals 2024 Player Of The Match Roston Chase. Brilliant Performance King!#CPL24 #CPLFinals #SLKvGAW #CricketPlayedLouder #BiggestPartyInSport #RepublicBank pic.twitter.com/TrZB5qBjK6

— CPL T20 (@CPL) October 7, 2024

//x.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1843129415804559404

Congratulations Faf du Plessis on winning?? another title. Must be relieved after a few no trophy years. Happy for him.

— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) October 7, 2024

Saint Lucia! We are bringing it home🏆🇱🇨#SLKvGAW #CPLFinal #beinspired #CPL24 #kiteyenspiwew #Ansanmnouplifò pic.twitter.com/d51oWB7qPa

— Saint Lucia Kings (@SaintLuciaKings) October 7, 2024

Finally, the Preity Zinta-owned franchise wins a trophy #SLKvGAW #CPL2024 #CPL #T20 #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/hiUfkNJD2z

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) October 7, 2024

THE WAIT IS OVER FOR PREITY ZINTA…!!!! 🏆

– Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia, Mohit Burman & Karan Paul are the owners of St Lucia (also owns Punjab Kings) have won the CPL 2024. pic.twitter.com/WavlOAYLPq

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 7, 2024

St Lucia Kings it is. And a first championship win for the Kings franchise anywhere. //t.co/oRjoTZLpXt

— Deepu Narayanan (@deeputalks) October 7, 2024

ST LUCIA KINGS WON THE CPL 2024 TITLE…!!!! 🏆

– Faf Du Plessis Captaining St Lucia Kings and won the Trophy. 🫡 pic.twitter.com/7a0SMWofP7

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) October 7, 2024

Congrats 🇱🇨 St Lucia Kings 🏏 on your first #CPL title!!! pic.twitter.com/DRRUoCd8bJ

— Haydn Dunn (@HaydnDunn) October 7, 2024

St Lucia Kings sit on the T-20 throne for the first time. History, so well deserved, this team has been the best franchise in the Republic Bank CPL for 2024 and fittingly are champions. Yet again, Darren Sammy is involved in white ball success, what a leader of men. pic.twitter.com/qWoPpVtyaA

— Anmar Goodridge-Boyce (@anmargboyce) October 7, 2024

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