“West Indies choose to bat in Sri Lanka T20 Decider”

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The West Indies opted to bat first after winning the toss in Thursday's crucial third T20 against Sri Lanka in Dambulla.

The tourists brought along wicketkeeper Shai Hope and spinner Fabian Allen in place of Andre Fletcher and Shamar Springer.

Sri Lanka, seeking its first bilateral T20 series win against the Windies, retained the same team that won the second match on Tuesday by a comfortable 73 runs.

“It looks like a very dry wicket,” West Indies captain Rovman Powell said.

“Hopefully we can put a good total on the board and defend it. We would be happy with a total of 140.”

Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka said he had also asked to bat first.

“We played well in the last game and we have to continue that here too. Pathum Nissanka struggled but he persevered and is ready to go,” he added.

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (week). Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (Captain), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thosehara.

West Indies: Rovman Powell (Capt), Roston Chase, Shai Hope (Week), Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Fabian Allen, Shamar Joseph.

Referees: Prageeth Rambukwella (SRI) and Ruchira Palliyaguruge (SRI)

Third referee: Raveendra Wimalasiri (SRI)

Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)

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