Sri Lanka create history with 9-wicket victory against West Indies, clinching T20I series for first time

"Happy to get the team over the line," said Mendis who hit five fours and three sixes.

"Not the easiest pitch to bat on, but these are conditions that we are used to playing."

The visitors nearly had a chance to dismiss Mendis when he was on 44, but Roston Chase failed to secure a difficult return catch.

Mendis and his opening partner Pathum Nissanka formed a rapid partnership of 60 runs in just 5.2 overs.

Nissanka, displaying excellent form, scored 39 runs off 22 balls, hitting seven fours and a six before being dismissed by a low delivery from Gudakesh Motie.

Mendis maintained his steady innings, skillfully driving the spinners through the covers and pulling the seamers with confidence.

He was joined by Kusal Perera, who scored an impressive unbeaten 55 off 36 balls, demonstrating his determination as he fought through cramps to achieve his 15th T20I half-century.

Together, Mendis and Perera built a strong partnership of 106 runs without losing their wicket, guiding Sri Lanka to a historic victory over the higher-ranked opponents.

The West Indies chose to bat first and initially struggled, finding themselves at 68-5 before captain Rovman Powell and Gudakesh Motie combined for a quick 54-run partnership off just 26 balls.

Motie hit Dunith Wellalage for three consecutive sixes and a four in the 15th over but was eventually stumped by Mendis off Wanindu Hasaranga’s bowling.

Sri Lanka relied heavily on their spin attack, with Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga each taking two wickets.

"I thought we had enough runs on the board," Powell said.