Two young top-order batsman, Udara Jayasundara and Minod Bhanuka stroked brilliant centuries for Sri Lanka Board President’s XI on day 2 in the three-day warm up game against West Indies at SSC grounds on Saturday.
Left-handed duo came together in the third ball of the innings when the home team were 2 down for no score. They strung a mammoth 214-run partnership after experienced off-spinner Suraj Randiv and recalled fast-bowler Suranga Lakmal bowled out the visitors for 209 early in the morning session.
The Windies were 127 for 6 overnight but they managed to get over 200 thanks to a fighting half-century by Carlos Braithwaite. Earlier on day one, Kraigg Braithwaite scored 46.
Randiv picked up 5 wickets for 73 while Lakmal gave away only 26 runs for his 3 wickets.
Kemar Roach had dismissed former Cambrians, Kusal Mendis and Lahiru Thirimanne in successive deliveries; Mendis was caught at point while Thirimanne offered an edge to the wicket-keeper.
The 20-year old wicket-keeper batsman from Maliyadeva College, Kurunegala, Bhanuka scored 101 from 160 deliveries with 15 fours and a six before he fell to Jason Holder late in the day before rain brought a pre-mature end to the day’s play.
Former Anandian and current Ragama Cricket Club skipper, Jayasundara remained unbeaten on 124 in 177 balls alongside Milinda Siriwardana (3*).
The match will be continued today (Sunday).
West Indies – 209 all out in 65.3 overs: Kraigg Braithwaite 46, Carlos Braithwaite 54, Shai Hope 24, Suraj Randiv 5/73, Suranga Lakmal 3/26, Vishwa Fernando 2/39.
Sri Lanka BP XI – 233/3 in 58.4 overs: Minod Bhanuka 101, Udara Jayasundara 124*, Kemar Roach 2/25.
