Sri Lanka's T20 World Cup campaign ended on a high note as they cruised to an 83-run victory over the Netherlands in their final Group D encounter. Despite being eliminated from Super Eight contention, the 2014 champions showcased their batting prowess, posting a formidable total of 201 for six.
Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka led the charge for Sri Lanka, both scoring 46 runs. Mendis' innings was a steady accumulation of boundaries, while Asalanka's knock was a whirlwind of sixes and fours. The duo took advantage of the strong crosswinds at the Daren Sammy Stadium in St Lucia to propel their team to the first 200-plus total in a T20 International at the venue.
The Netherlands' chase started brightly, with openers Max O'Dowd and Michael Levitt putting on a 45-run partnership. However, the innings fell apart after O'Dowd's dismissal, with Nuwan Thushara claiming three wickets to reduce the Dutch to 69 for four.
News of Bangladesh's victory over Nepal, which secured their spot in the Super Eight, further dampened the Netherlands' spirits. Sri Lanka capitalized on the deflated Dutch team, bowling them out for 118 in 16.4 overs.
Edwards and Levitt top-scored for the Netherlands with 31 runs each, but the Sri Lankan bowling attack proved too strong. Thushara was the standout performer, claiming three wickets for 24 runs.
Despite their early exit from the tournament, Sri Lanka's victory over the Netherlands provided a glimmer of hope for the future. The team showed glimpses of their potential, and with a young and talented squad, they will be looking to make a stronger impact in future ICC events.
Tags: #T20WorldCup, #SriLanka, #Netherlands, #KusalMendis, #CharithAsalanka
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