Lahiru Milantha played the knock of his life on the third day of the second four day match against South Africa Emerging team today when he scored 196 runs in the first innings. At stumps Sri Lankans were 467 for 7.
Lahiru Milantha who was in form during the 50 over tri series finally reached his potential today. Lankans had their back against the wall after the hosts posted a mammoth 588 runs in their first innings. Lankans started off the day at 98 for 1, both Hashan Dumindu and Lahiru Milantha carried on their partnership before Dumindu was dismissed for 49 runs.
Rumesh Buddika came in next but he failed to capitalize in these batting friendly conditions as he was dismissed for a duck. Then Lahiru was joined by Sandun Weerakkody, together they put up 186 runs for the 4th wicket.
Sandun scored a run a ball for his 78 while Lahiru looked dominant on the other end. After the wicket of Sandun, Lahiru stepped up the gas and as he reached triple figures. Lahiru did not stop there, he carried on and ultimately his innings came to an end when he was just 4 runs short of a magnificent double hundred. His innings of 196 had 31 4’s and 4 6’s.
Lahiru was well supported by Sanjaya Chathuranga and Anuk Fernando. Sanjaya scored 27 runs while Anuk remained unbeaten at 32. Lankans managed to post 467 for 7 in 119 overs. The match is heading towards a draw but a big positive for the Lankans today was the innings of Lahiru Milantha.
South Africa Emerging 588 for 5 in 123.2overs
Karabo Mogotsi 206*, Johannes Ackerman 156, Sanjaya Chathuranga 2/96Sri Lanka Emerging 467 for 7 in 119 overs
Lahiru Milantha 196, Sandun Weerakkody 78, Mbulelo Budaza 3/77
