In a nail-biting encounter at Coolidge Cricket Grounds, the Sri Lanka U19 team clinched a dramatic victory over West Indies U19 in the second Youth ODI, leveling the seven-match series at 1-1.
After winning the toss, West Indies U19 elected to bat first but struggled against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack. Despite a valiant effort from Joshua Dorne, who scored a fighting 82 runs off 112 balls, including 5 fours, the hosts were bowled out for 201 in their 50 overs.
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Sri Lanka’s wrist-spinner Vigneshwaran Akash was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 30 runs in a tidy 10-over spell. He was well-supported by Viran Chamuditha and Kavija Gamage, who picked up two wickets each, ensuring West Indies couldn’t build substantial partnerships.
Chasing 202, Sri Lanka U19 faced a tougher challenge than the modest target suggested. The West Indies bowlers kept the pressure on, reducing Sri Lanka to a precarious position as wickets fell at regular intervals.
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However, skipper Vimath Dinsara led from the front with a gritty 45 off 61 balls, including 5 fours, anchoring the innings and keeping his team in the hunt. The chase went down to the wire, with Sri Lanka reaching the target in the 48th over, but not before losing nine wickets, making it a heart-stopping finish for fans at Coolidge Cricket Grounds.
With the series now tied at 1-1, both teams are gearing up for the third Youth ODI, scheduled for September 4 at the same venue.
Brief Scores
West Indies U19 – 201 (47.5) Joshua Dorne 82, Brendon Boodoo 28, Vigneshwaran Akash 3/30, Viran Chamuditha 2/21, Kavija Gamage 2/28
Sri Lanka U19 – 204/9 (48) Vimath Dinsara 45, Chamika Heenatigala 30, Pulisha Thilakaratne 24, Senuja Wekunagoda 24, Sethmika Senevirathne 20*, Zachary Carter 3/42
Result – Sri Lanka U19 won by 1 wicket
