West Indies facing elimination from World Cup

Apr 02, 2007 Cricket

Sanath Jayasuriya, all of 37 years old, turned back the clock in superb style as Sri Lanka beat the West Indies by 113 runs in their Super Eights match. The Sri Lankans hammered the Windies bowlers to rattle up 303-5, and then went on to skittle them for 190 in 44.3 overs.

After a slow start, when they lost two wickets, Jayasuriya took his time to consolidate the innings in the company of skipper Jayawardene, breaking free in the 17th over by Bradshaw, and the next one by Dwayne Smith. Jayasuria also got into the ODI record books, equalling Tendulkar’s record of being the most capped player, and then as the biggest six hitter, thrashing Taylor to bring up his 233rd six.

He also brought up his 3rd World Cup century in just 86 balls, before tiredness saw him gift his wicket away, having made a fine 115 and pulling the Lankans out of the woods.

Gayle came a cropper against Malinga and that set the tone for the Windies innings, as Vaas cleaned up Bravo and then, amazingly, had Lara stumped by Sangakkara.

Even though Murali went for a few this time, the man of the moment, Jayasuriya, then got into the act, turning his arm over and picking up three wickets. West Indies is now on the brink of elimination, especially after their earlier losses to Australia and New Zealand.