Sri Lanka U19 secured a thrilling 1-wicket victory over India U19 in the third and final Youth ODI of the three-match series played today (9th July) at Hambantota, sealing the series 2-1.
Having been asked to bat first, India U19 posted a competitive 290 for 8 in their allotted 50 overs, thanks largely to an outstanding century from No. 3 batter VK Vineeth.
Vineeth struck a superb 131 off 136 deliveries, laced with 13 fours and 3 sixes, anchoring the visitors’ innings after the early loss of wickets.
Right-arm seamer Sethmika Senevirathne was the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers, producing an impressive spell to claim 4 wickets for 41 runs. Left-arm seamer Gimhan Mendis, who starred with a five-wicket haul in the previous match, chipped in with 2 wickets for 63 runs.
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In reply, Sri Lanka U19 produced a spirited chase that went right down to the final delivery. With the match hanging in the balance, the hosts held their nerve to reach the target on the last ball of the innings, finishing with just one wicket in hand.
Chamika Heenatigala emerged as the hero of the chase with a composed, unbeaten 84 off 68 balls, striking 7 fours and 2 sixes to guide Sri Lanka home in dramatic fashion.
Senuja Wekunagoda continued his rich vein of form, contributing a crucial 67 off 59 deliveries, including 10 fours and a six. The stylish left-hander also registered his third consecutive half-century of the series, providing another solid platform for the successful chase.
Brief Scores
India U19 – 290/8 (50) VK Vineeth 131, Sethmika Senevirathne 4/41, Gimhan Mendis 2/63
Sri Lanka U19 – 291/9 (50) Chamika Heenatigala 84*, Senuja Wekunagoda 67, Kithma Withanapathirana 31, Kavija Gamage 29, Gimhan Mendis 23, Dimantha Mahavithana 22, Anmoljeet Singh 4/42, Shavin Vinodh 3/41
Result – Sri Lanka U19 won by 1 wicket
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