The West Indies Masters delivered a brilliant performance to secure a thrilling six-run victory against the Sri Lanka Masters in the semifinal of the International Masters League (IML).
A half-century from Denesh Ramdin, 41 from Brian Lara, and a fiery four-wicket haul by Tino Best were the highlights as the Caribbean side secured their place in the final, where they will face the formidable India Masters.
Batting first, the West Indies Masters posted a competitive total of 179-5, thanks mainly to Ramdin, who remained unbeaten on 50, which came off 22 deliveries and included four fours and three sixes.
It did not start well for the regional team, which lost opener Dwayne Smith, who was run out without scoring after facing just one ball. Lendl Simmons smacked a four and six to get to 17 but was the second wicket to fall in the 7th over, with the score on 44.
Opener Williams Perkins also hit four boundaries, but he fell in the 8th over with the score on 48 for 3. Chadwick Walton scored a brisk 31, but he was dismissed in the 14th over, and the West Indies Masters saw themselves in a difficult spot at 108 for4.
A stylish knock of 41 from captain Lara helped spruce up the score, but the skipper decided to retire with an over to go.
The Sri Lanka Masters bowlers put up a disciplined effort, but Ramdin’s explosive finish ensured the West Indies had momentum heading into the second innings.
In response, Sri Lanka Masters struggled as Tino Best wreaked havoc with the ball, claiming 4-27 in a match-defining spell.
Best remove Upul Tharanga for 30, Lahiru Thirimanne for 9, Jeevan Mendis for 4, and Dilruwan Perera for 11 to hold back the Sri Lankans run chase.
Despite a courageous effort, they fell short, finishing at 173-9 in their 20 overs, with Asela Gunaratne top-scoring with 66 runs.
Best finished with 4-27, while Smith got 2 wickets for 37 runs.
The West Indies Masters will now take on the India Masters in the final at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium.
