In a gripping start to the first four-day match between Australia A and Sri Lanka A at Darwin, Sonal Dinusha’s unbeaten century (105* off 148 balls) emerged as the cornerstone of Sri Lanka A’s fightback after a shaky start.
With Australia ‘A’ winning the toss and opting to bowl first under clear skies, the visitors faced early pressure but found a hero in Dinusha, whose resilient knock kept his side in the contest.
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The day began with Australia A’s decision to field, banking on their pace attack to exploit the early conditions. Their strategy paid dividends as Sri Lanka A’s openers, Lahiru Udara and Kamil Mishara, fell cheaply for 5 and 12, respectively, leaving the visitors reeling.
Liam Scott and Henry Thornton struck early, setting an aggressive tone for the hosts. With the score at a precarious 17/2, Sri Lanka A needed stability, and Nuwanidu Fernando and skipper Pasindu Sooriyabandara answered the call.
The duo stitched together a vital 60-run partnership for the third wicket, displaying grit and determination to weather the storm. Fernando’s composed batting complemented Sooriyabandara’s leadership at the crease, offering a brief respite for Sri Lanka A.
However, Australia A’s bowlers, led by Scott, Thornton, and Nathan McSweeney, each claiming two wickets, struck back to reduce the visitors to a wobbly 128/6. The middle order crumbled under pressure, and a low total loomed large.
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Enter Dinusha. The left-handed batter, known for his composure, took charge when his team needed him most. Alongside Isitha Wijesundara, Dinusha forged a crucial 77-run stand for the seventh wicket, frustrating Australia A’s bowlers and shifting the momentum.
Wijesundara played a supporting role, but it was Dinusha’s elegance and resolve that stole the show. His unbeaten 105, laced with 10 fours and a towering six, came off just 148 balls—a masterclass in blending caution with aggression.
Brief Scores
Sri Lanka ‘A’ – 272 (82) Sonal Dinusha 105*, Nuwanidu Fernando 34, Isitha Wijesundara 33, Vishad Randika 27, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 20, Liam Scott 2/27, Henry Thornton 2/31, Nathan McSweeney 2/51
Stumps – Day 1
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