DAMBULLA - Sri Lanka stormed back to level the three-match T20 series with an emphatic 73-run win over the West Indies on Tuesday, marking their largest ever margin of victory against the Caribbean side.
The dominant performance at Dambulla was Sri Lanka's sixth-largest T20 win against any team, surpassing their previous best over West Indies -- a 57-run triumph in London in 2009.
Sri Lanka, after setting a competitive target of 163, unleashed a relentless assault from their spinners, skittling the visitors for just 89 runs in 16.1 overs.
This score marked the West Indies' lowest total against Sri Lanka in T20 internationals, and their sixth lowest ever.
The spin-dominated attack claimed nine wickets, with only three overs of pace bowled, capitalising on a worn pitch that deteriorated quickly, leaving West Indies with no foothold in the chase.
Sri Lanka's spin magic struck early, removing both openers within the first four overs.
Evin Lewis and Brandon King, who had been the architects of West Indies' explosive start in the first match with a 107-run partnership, were neutralised by Sri Lanka's bowlers.
The stage is now set for a thrilling series decider on Thursday, also at Dambulla, with eighth-ranked Sri Lanka eyeing an upset series victory over the third-ranked West Indies.
The West Indies won the first match after a commanding five-wicket victory on Sunday. The T20 series will be followed by a three-match ODI series.