Sri Lanka ‘A’ batsmen led by Upul Tharanga produced a fine riposte at close of 2nd day’s play after Chris Woakes had led England Lions to an impressive first innings score of 461 in the third and final unofficial test at R. Premadasa International Stadium.
England Lions commenced from their overnight score of 302 for 5. Left hand batsman Scott Borthwick was the first wicket to fall in the morning after he was woefully trapped right in front for 99 by Vishwa Fernando. Chris Woakes continued to pummel the Sri Lankan ‘A’ bowlers as he scored yet another century under his name during the tour. With 16 boundaries to his name in a 232 ball knock of 137 finally came to an end when he was dismissed by Suraj Randiv. Sri Lanka test discard off spinner Suraj Randiv ran through the England Lions tail enders as England Lions were finally bowled out for 461. Suraj Randiv impressed the selectors with a five wicket haul.
Sri Lanka ‘A’ responded in fine style as skipper Upul Tharanga made a risk-free unbeaten century as he escorted the Sri Lanka ‘A’ innings after they lost opener Dimuth Karunaratne in the 6th over in their innings. Upul Tharanga remained unbeaten with his partner Madawa Warnapura as the pair put on an unbroken 134 runs for the 2nd wicket at stumps. Upul Tharanga prospered with 102 runs with 18 boundaries while Madawa Warnapura played a superb supporting role with a 129 ball 47 as Sri Lanka ‘A’ were placed on a healthy 166 for 1 wicket.
Scores in Brief :
England Lions – 461 all out in 130.1 overs : Chris Woakes 137, Scott Borthwick 99, Varun Chopra 83, Liam Plunkett 39, Suraj Randiv 5/107, Lahiru Gamage 2/95.
Sri Lanka ‘A’ – 166/1 in 47 overs : Upul Tharanga 102*, Madawa Warnapura 47*
