Colombo, June 12 (Daily Mirror) - The West Indies secured a convincing seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the opening T20 International at Sabina Park, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Playing in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, the hosts delivered a dominant all-round performance, chasing down the target with four balls to spare and beginning their international summer campaign on a winning note.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the West Indies bowling attack kept Sri Lanka under constant pressure, restricting the visitors to 147 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. Sri Lanka struggled to establish momentum as wickets fell at regular intervals against a disciplined bowling unit.

Kamindu Mendis was the standout performer for Sri Lanka, scoring a fighting 51 off 39 deliveries. However, he received little support from the rest of the batting lineup as the visitors failed to post a challenging total.

All-rounder Jason Holder led the bowling effort for the home side, producing an impressive spell of 3 for 18 to dismantle the Sri Lankan batting order.

In response, the West Indies approached the chase with confidence and composure, reaching 149 for 3 in 19.2 overs. Shai Hope anchored the innings superbly with an unbeaten 65, guiding the hosts through crucial partnerships and ensuring the required run rate remained comfortably under control throughout the chase.

Despite attempts by Sri Lanka's bowlers to create pressure during the middle overs, the target proved insufficient against a confident West Indian batting lineup.

The two teams will remain in Kingston for the second T20 International, scheduled to be played on June 13.