The second four-day match between Sri Lanka ‘A’ and Australia ‘A’ commenced today (20th July) at Marrara Cricket Ground in Darwin.
Australia ‘A’ won the toss and opted to bowl first against Sri Lanka ‘A’ in the 2nd four-day game with the visitors making three changes to their playing XI.
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Sohan de Livera, Shiran Fernando, and Asanka Manoj were brought into the side replacing Vishad Randika, Pramod Madushan, and Mohamed Shiraz.
Sri Lanka Playing XI – Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Pavan Rathnayake, Sonal Dinusha, Sohan de Livera, Isitha Wijesundara, Shiran Fernando, Nishan Peiris, Asanka Manoj
The opening batter Lahiru Udara fell early, dismissed for just 10 runs, leaving the team at a precarious 18 for 1. However, the innings was quickly steadied by a commanding 116-run partnership for the second wicket between opener Kamil Mishara and No. 3 batter Nuwanidu Fernando.
Mishara, displaying composure and elegance, played a pivotal role with a well-crafted 81 runs off 131 balls, including 9 fours. His disciplined knock provided the stability Sri Lanka ‘A’ needed after the early loss.
Mishara’s departure, falling short of a century, brought Nuwanidu Fernando into the spotlight. Fernando, who has been in sublime form having scored a century in the last game, continued his fine run with a masterful 102 runs off 234 balls, featuring 7 fours and a solitary six.
His patient yet authoritative innings was the cornerstone of Sri Lanka ‘A’s performance, showcasing his ability to conquer the challenging Australian conditions. Fernando’s century, his second consecutive ton in the series, underlined his growing reputation as a dependable batter for Sri Lanka ‘A’.
Following Mishara’s exit, Fernando found an able partner in Pavan Rathnayake, who played a crucial supporting role. The duo forged a vital 111-run partnership for the fourth wicket, frustrating the Australian ‘A’ bowling attack.
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Rathnayake, unbeaten on 43 runs at the close of play, displayed grit and determination, ensuring Sri Lanka ‘A’ maintained momentum through the final session. His steady presence complemented Fernando’s dominance, guiding the team to a strong position by stumps.
The stage is set for an exciting Day 2 as Sri Lanka ‘A’ looks to capitalize on their strong start, while Australia ‘A’ aims to fight back with early wickets. You can catch the LIVE action of Day 2 on ThePapare 1 (Dialog TV Ch.62), Dialog ViU app and ThePapare.com.
Brief Scores
Sri Lanka ‘A’ – 263/4 (90) Nuwanidu Fernando 102, Kamil Mishara 81, Pavan Rathnayake 43*
Australia ‘A’ –
Stumps – Day 1
 at Marrara Cricket Ground in Darwin. ){kind=link}