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West Indies opted to bat first after winning the toss in Thursday’s series-deciding third T20 against Sri Lanka in Dambulla.

The tourists brought in wicketkeeper Shai Hope and spinner Fabian Allen in place of Andre Fletcher and Shamar Springer.

Sri Lanka, chasing their first bilateral T20 series win against the Windies, retained the same team that won Tuesday’s second match by a whopping 73 runs.

“It looks a very dry wicket,” said West Indies captain Rovman Powell.

“Hopefully we put a good total on the board and defend it. We would be happy with a total of 140.”

Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka said he would also have asked to bat first.

“We played well in the last match and we have to continue in the same way. Pathum Nissanka had a niggle but he has persevered and is ready to go,” he added.

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk). Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (captain), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Alsohara.

West Indies: Rovman Powell (captain), Roston Chase, Shai Hope (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Fabian Allen, Shamar Joseph.

Referees: Prageeth Rambukwella (SRI) and Ruchira Palliyaguruge (SRI)

Third referee: Raveendra Wimalasiri (SRI)

Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)

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