West Indies vs Sri Lanka, 2nd ODI Match Summary

A series to save - West Indies head into the second ODI at Sabina Park with their backs firmly against the wall. Sri Lanka claimed the series opener by 41 runs, posting 303 before bowling the hosts out for 262 in reply, and the home side now find themselves in a must-win position. Lose here, and the series is gone, and it will only make their task of securing direct qualification for the ODI World Cup even more difficult. Where it went wrong - The first game exposed familiar vulnerabilities in this West Indies batting line-up. A bright start at the top gave way to middle-order fragility once the Sri Lankan spinners came on. Once again, the spotlight will be on how the West Indies batting unit handles Sri Lanka's spin challenge. Just as importantly, they will need to convert starts into substantial scores after several batters failed to kick on in the opener. Spark with the ball - While there were encouraging signs with the new ball, the bowling attack lacked the penetration needed through the middle overs. They will be looking to build on the promising signs shown by Jayden Seales and Matthew Forde in the opener, while Alzarri Joseph will be keen to find his rhythm after an expensive first game. A positive start to a new chapter - The new era of Kusal Mendis in charge has begun well for the tourists, and it was the captain himself who led from the front in the series opener. Pathum Nissanka, meanwhile, was not quite at his fluent best and will be keen to play the kind of commanding innings that has become his trademark at the top of the order. Charith Asalanka showed promising signs after a difficult run of form, while Janith Liyanage's late cameo was a reminder of the finishing ability Sri Lanka carry deep in their lineup. The bowling blueprint - With the ball, Dushmantha Chameera was the standout performer in the opener and will carry an equal threat in the second game. His ability to make an impact across phases gives Mendis a genuine match-winner to call upon at any point in the innings. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana were immaculate through the middle overs and will back themselves to cause the same problems should the conditions offer them similar assistance. Form (Last 5 completed ODIs, recent first) - WI - LLLLL | SL - WLLWL. Conditions in focus - The series opener was a morning start, but the second ODI is a day-night affair, which could make conditions quite different. Expect the new ball to do a bit more, particularly during the evening period, and with showers expected, seamers could have a greater role to play than they did in the opener. Hopefully, the rain stays away and allows for a full game of cricket to decide the outcome.