The Tri-Oceans Series 2026 Final delivered a spectacular finish as Sri Lanka defeated West Indies by 18 runs at Warner Park to lift the inaugural championship. In a contest packed with explosive batting, breathtaking fielding, and crucial wickets, Dinesh Chandimal stole the spotlight with a magnificent unbeaten century that powered Sri Lanka to a daunting total before the bowlers held their nerve to deny the tournament's previously unbeaten side.

Chandimal Produces a Knock for the Ages

Batting first, Sri Lanka suffered an early setback when Pathum Nissanka departed for 6, dismissed by Alzarri Joseph in just the second delivery of the innings.

The early wicket brought Dinesh Chandimal to the crease, and what followed was one of the greatest innings ever witnessed in T10 cricket.

Despite losing Kusal Mendis for a duck and Kusal Perera shortly after, Chandimal never allowed the innings to lose momentum. Displaying remarkable timing and fearless stroke play, he dismantled the West Indies bowling attack to all parts of Warner Park.

The experienced wicketkeeper-batter remained unbeaten on a sensational 101 from just 30 balls, smashing 16 sixes and one boundary at an incredible strike rate of 336.67. His century was the defining moment of the final and became the first century of the tournament.

Excellent support came from Dasun Shanaka, who blasted 36 off only 11 deliveries, while Kamindu Mendis contributed a useful 12 from 6 balls. The late acceleration ensured Sri Lanka posted an imposing 174/5, their highest total of the tournament.

For West Indies, Romario Shepherd and Kyle Mayers picked up two wickets each, while Alzarri Joseph continued his fine tournament with one wicket, but none of the bowlers could contain Chandimal's relentless assault.

West Indies Launch a Fierce Reply

Chasing 175, West Indies began aggressively. Brandon King raced to 19 off 8 balls before falling to Eshan Malinga, but the innings exploded when Shimron Hetmyer took charge.

Hetmyer produced a breathtaking 63 from only 17 deliveries, smashing nine sixes and two fours to keep West Indies firmly in the hunt. Alongside him, Sherfane Rutherford hammered 22 off 5 balls, while Jason Holder added 13, ensuring the required run rate remained within reach.

At one stage, West Indies looked capable of pulling off another remarkable chase after several dramatic victories during the league stage.

Sri Lanka Strike at Crucial Moments

Sri Lanka's bowlers responded brilliantly under pressure.

Matheesha Pathirana removed the dangerous Rutherford before dismissing both Roston Chase and Romario Shepherd, finishing with 3 wickets to halt the middle-order charge.

Wanindu Hasaranga once again delivered in a big match, removing Shai Hope for a duck and later dismissing Jason Holder, breaking two potentially match-winning partnerships.

Eshan Malinga also made key breakthroughs by dismissing Brandon King and Kyle Mayers, while Dushmantha Chameera cleaned up Akeal Hosein after Alzarri Joseph had been run out in a desperate attempt to keep the chase alive.

Excellent fielding, including crucial catches by Kusal Perera, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Pathum Nissanka, along with two important run-outs involving Kusal Mendis, ensured Sri Lanka maintained control during the closing stages.

West Indies were eventually bowled out for 156 in 9.2 overs, falling 18 runs short despite a spirited chase.

Chandimal Delivers the Championship

Having been one of Sri Lanka's most consistent performers throughout the competition, Dinesh Chandimal saved his finest performance for the biggest occasion. His unbeaten century completely transformed the final, providing Sri Lanka with a total that ultimately proved beyond West Indies despite their explosive batting lineup.

His innings will be remembered as one of the greatest knocks in the history of the Tri-Oceans Series and fittingly earned him the Player of the Match award.

Sri Lanka Complete a Remarkable Turnaround

After suffering setbacks earlier in the league stage, Sri Lanka found their rhythm at the perfect time. Consecutive victories over New Zealand secured their place in the final, and they rose to the occasion with a complete team performance to defeat the unbeaten West Indies and lift the inaugural Tri-Oceans Series trophy.

Player of the Match

Dinesh Chandimal (Sri Lanka) was deservedly named Player of the Match after producing a breathtaking unbeaten 101 off just 30 balls, smashing 16 sixes to become the first centurion in Tri-Oceans Series history and lead Sri Lanka to their maiden title.

Match Summary

The Tri-Oceans Series 2026 Final provided a spectacular conclusion to the tournament. Dinesh Chandimal's unforgettable unbeaten century powered Sri Lanka to a commanding 174/5, setting West Indies a daunting target. Although Shimron Hetmyer launched a stunning counterattack with 63 off 17 balls, Sri Lanka's bowlers held their composure and picked up wickets at crucial moments to dismiss the Caribbean side for 156. The 18-run victory crowned Sri Lanka as the inaugural Tri-Oceans Series champions, while Chandimal's historic century ensured the final would be remembered as one of the greatest matches in the tournament's history.