Kingston Rain Forces Abandonment of West Indies vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI


2nd ODI of the 3-match series abandoned without a ball bowled due to persistent drizzle and heavy rain at Sabina Park, Kingston. Covers came on just as the match was about to start. Despite a brief clearer patch on one side of the ground, the pitch and bowler run-ups stayed covered and no play was possible. The washout means West Indies' hopes of winning the series are wiped out, but they can still draw level in the final game on Monday. Perhaps more importantly, a win there will give the hosts a much needed rankings boost, with qualification for next year's World Cup hinging on their final position come March next year. The toss itself had been delayed by 30 minutes following rain earlier in the day, and it was the possibility of rain intervening later on that had influenced Shai Hope's decision to field first. Series remains 1-1 after Sri Lanka won the 1st ODI by 41 runs on June 3. The washed-out 2nd game means the 3rd ODI on June 8 becomes a straight series decider. West Indies XI: Shai Hope (c, 150th ODI), John Campbell, Justin Greaves, Keacy Carty, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Amir Jangoo, Gudakesh Motie, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales. Sri Lanka XI: Kusal Mendis (c/wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Milan Rathnayake, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga. West Indies won the toss and elected to field, but never got to start.Both teams are chasing 2027 World Cup qualification points – top 8 in ICC rankings + hosts qualify automatically by March 31, 2027. Bottom line: Heavy rain in Kingston forced the abandonment of the 2nd ODI, leaving the West Indies vs Sri Lanka series level at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all 3rd ODI on June 8.