Sri Lanka ‘A’ registered a commanding victory over New Zealand ‘A’ in the first unofficial ODI of the three-match series played today (5th April) at the Galle International Cricket Stadium.
Having been asked to bat first, the hosts produced a solid batting performance to post a competitive total of 261 runs, thanks to valuable contributions from Kamil Mishara, Sahan Arachchige, and Milan Rathnayake.
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Opening batter Kamil Mishara provided Sri Lanka ‘A’ with a flying start, top-scoring with an aggressive 71 off 49 deliveries, which included 12 boundaries and a six. Skipper Sahan Arachchige then steadied the innings with a composed knock of 66 runs off 81 balls, striking 7 fours and a six.
Coming in at No. 7, Milan Rathnayake played a crucial role in anchoring the lower order, adding a valuable 53 runs off 89 deliveries with 3 fours and a six, helping Sri Lanka ‘A’ reach a formidable total.
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For the visitors, Kristian Clarke and Adithya Ashok were the standout bowlers, claiming two wickets each.
In reply, New Zealand ‘A’ struggled against a disciplined and devastating Sri Lankan bowling attack and were bundled out for just 121 runs.
Left-arm spinner Wanuja Sahan produced a sensational spell, proving unplayable as he ripped through the batting line-up with figures of 5 for 13. He was well supported by fellow left-arm spinner Sonal Dinusha, who chipped in with an impressive 2 for 10, as Sri Lanka ‘A’ sealed a massive victory in the series opener.
Brief Scores
Sri Lanka ‘A’ – 261 (49.2) Kamil Mishara 71, Sahan Arachchige 66, Milan Rathnayaka 53, Kristian Clarke 2/42, Adithya Ashok 2/45
New Zealand ‘A’ – 121 (28.4) Dale Phillips 30, Wanuja Sahan 5/13, Sonal Dinusha 2/10
Result – Sri Lanka ‘A’ won by 140 runs
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