Sri Lanka ‘A’ completed a dominant clean sweep in the three-match unofficial ODI series against New Zealand ‘A’ as they clinched the third and final game by 4 wickets today (11th April) at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota.
After winning the toss, New Zealand ‘A’ opted to bat first and posted an imposing 302 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs. Middle-order batter Muhammad Abbas led the charge with a superb century, anchoring the innings brilliantly after the visitors lost early momentum. He was well supported by Matthew Boyle, who contributed a crucial half-century to strengthen the New Zealand total.
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For Sri Lanka ‘A’, wrist-spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth was the standout performer with the ball, returning impressive figures of 2 for 46 while maintaining pressure through the middle overs.
In reply, Sri Lanka ‘A’ produced another composed batting performance to continue their excellent run in the series. Opening batter Kamil Mishara laid a solid foundation at the top of the order with a fluent half-century, setting the tone for the chase.
The middle order then took control through Pavan Rathnayake and Ahan Wickramasinghe, both of whom struck excellent fifties to keep the required rate under control.
With the chase entering the closing stages, Sri Lanka ‘A’ kept their composure to reach 303 for 6 in 46.2 overs, sealing a convincing four-wicket victory with 22 balls to spare.
Brief Scores
New Zealand ‘A’ – 302/7 (50) Muhammad Abbas 110*, Matthew Boyle 85, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth 2/46
Sri Lanka ‘A’ – 303/6 (46.2) Kamil Mishara 83, Pavan Rathnayake 77, Ahan Wickramasinghe 64, Lasith Croospulle 26, Sonal Dinusha 26, Simon Keene 4/54
Result – Sri Lanka ‘A’ won by 4 wickets
 at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota.){kind=link}