Sri Lanka ‘A’ produced a commanding all-round performance to register a convincing innings victory over New Zealand ‘A’ in the second unofficial Test at the Galle International Cricket Stadium, sealing the two-match series 1-0.
After winning the toss, New Zealand ‘A’ elected to bat first and posted a competitive 305 in their first innings. Middle-order batter Matthew Boyle led the charge with a superb century, anchoring the innings against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack.
However, left-arm spinner Dilum Sudeera proved to be the standout performer for the hosts, delivering a match-defining spell of 6 for 107 to keep the visitors in check.
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In reply, Sri Lanka ‘A’ put themselves firmly in control with a dominant batting display, amassing 518 runs in their first innings. No. 3 batter Kamil Mishara starred with a magnificent 174 off just 168 deliveries, striking 19 fours and 2 sixes in a commanding knock that dismantled the Kiwi bowling attack.
He was well supported by valuable contributions from Lahiru Udara and Nishan Madushka at the top, while Nuwanidu Fernando and Sonal Dinusha added crucial half-centuries to further strengthen the total.
Trailing by 213 runs, New Zealand ‘A’ faltered badly in their second innings. The Sri Lankan bowlers maintained relentless pressure, bundling the visitors out for just 104 to secure a comprehensive innings victory.
Sudeera once again led the charge with the ball, claiming 4 for 38 to cap off an outstanding match performance.
Brief Scores
New Zealand ‘A’ – 305 (87.1) Matthew Boyle 102, Curtis Heaphy 59, Dilum Sudeera 6/107, Ramesh Mendis 3/103 & 104 (31.2) Max Chu 35, Dilum Sudeera 4/38, Mohamed Shiraz 2/27, Ramesh Mendis 2/33
Sri Lanka ‘A’ – 518 (127) Kamil Mishara 174, Lahiru Udara 61, Sonal Dinusha 60*, Nishan Madushka 57, Nuwanidu Fernando 55, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 43, Dilum Sudeera 24, Dale Phillips 3/44
Result – Sri Lanka ‘A’ won by an innings & 109 runs
