Sri Lanka opener Danushka Gunathilaka was controversially dismissed for obstructing the field in the first ODI against West Indies in Antigua on Wednesday as the hosts wrapped up an eight-wicket victory.

Gunathilaka had made a fluent 55 when he defended a Kieron Pollard delivery and moved a few steps forward before sending back batting partner Pathum Nissanka and returning to the crease himself.

Sensing a run out opportunity, Pollard sprinted towards the ball but retreating Gunathilaka’s heel diverted it out of reach of the West Indies captain, who appealed furiously.

Under law 37 of the game, a batsman can be given out if he “wilfully attempts to obstruct or distract” the fielding side but video replays suggested Gunathilaka did not intentionally knock the ball away from Pollard.

On-field umpire Joel Wilson referred the decision to the third umpire, who adjudged the batsman out. Gunathilaka was out for 55 as he became the eighth player to be dismissed in this fashion in ODIs.

Tom Moody, who was appointed Sri Lanka’s director of cricket last month, voiced his disappointment. “‘Wilful obstruction’ no way was that wilful ... #shocker,” he tweeted.

Sri Lanka were all out for 232. Windies completed the chase with three overs to spare.