Only 40.3 overs were possible on Monday as the second youth ODI between Sri Lanka and Pakistan ended in a no result at NCC grounds.
Overnight rain delayed the start by two and half hours and later, bad light ended the game one and half hours early. The game was shortened to 36-over affair by the officials prior to the start.
Pakistan skipper Imran Rafiq elected to bat first on a placid surface. The visitors lost their opener Zeeshan Malik in the 2nd over but they accumulated runs swiftly despite losing wickets at regular intervals.
Rafiq led from the front scoring 50 from 68 balls with 4 fours. Useful contributions down the order by Awais Iqbal (22) and Kamran Afzal (21) ensured Pakistan post a commendable first-innings score of 175 all out in 34.2 overs.
For the hosts, off-spinner Charith Asalanka and fast-bowler Lahiru Kumara picked up 3 wickets each while Sammu Ashan took 2 wickets.
Chasing 176 runs to win, Sri Lanka under 19s lost both their openers, Shanogeeth Shanmuganathan (6) and Salinda Ushan (6) cheaply but poor light intervened soon afterwards.
Sri Lanka under 19 lead the five-match series, 1-0 after winning the first game quite comprehensively in Hambanthota. The next 3 games are scheduled to be played at SSC grounds.
Pakistan U19 – 175 all out in 34.2 overs: Imran Rafiq 50, Awais Iqbal 22, Kamran Afzal 21, Lahiru Kumara 3/45, Charith Asalanka 3/27, Sammu Ashan 2/30.
Sri Lanka U19 – 25/2 in 6 overs.
