Parris’ magnificent 177 powers West Indies Academy to series triumph

A sensational century from Shaqkere Parris propelled the West Indies Academy to a commanding 76-run victory over Sri Lanka. Emerging in the third and decisive one-day match at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground in Colombo, sealing the three-match series 2-1.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, the visitors produced a dominant batting display, amassing an imposing 349 for four from their allotted 50 overs. Leading the charge was Parris, whose breathtaking 177 came from just 129 deliveries and featured 13 fours and 11 towering sixes. His innings laid the foundation for the Academy’s highest total of the series.
Parris received excellent support from Guyanese middle-order batsman Kelvon Anderson, who played a composed unbeaten knock of 86 from 78 balls. Anderson struck seven fours and two sixes to ensure the West Indies maintained their momentum through the latter stages of the innings. Captain Rivaldo Clarke also made a valuable contribution with 38 runs.
For the home side, Chamika Heenatigala was the standout bowler, returning economical figures of 1 for 30 from his full quota of 10 overs despite the heavy scoring.

Set a daunting target of 350, Sri Lanka. Emerging never gained complete control of the chase and were eventually dismissed for 273 in 42.4 overs. Ranesh Silva top-scored with an entertaining 69 from 64 balls, including five fours and two sixes, while Dinura Kalupahana added a fighting 54. However, regular wickets prevented the hosts from mounting a serious challenge.
West Indies Academy’s bowlers shared the workload impressively, with Amari Goodridge leading the attack by claiming four for 56. Zishan Motara and Giovonte Depeiza provided excellent support, each taking two wickets to help wrap up the innings and secure the convincing victory.
The triumph capped an impressive tour for the West Indies Academy, whose all-round performance in the series decider underlined the depth of emerging talent in Caribbean cricket.