Leg spinner Wanuja Sahan had a superb figures of 5 for 13 as Sri Lanka ‘A’ notched up an easy 140 runs win over New Zealand ‘A’ in their first unofficial ODI of the 3- match series played at Galle International Cricket Stadium yesterday.
New Zealanders chasing a target of 262 were all out for 121 in only 28.4 overs and leg spinner Wanuja Sahan was leading from the front taking 5 for 13 in his 6.4 overs to restrict opponents for just 121 runs. Wanuja was adjudged the Man of the Match.
New Zealand ‘A ‘openers Rhys Mairu (19) and Dale Phillips (30 in 17 balls with 6 fours and a six) made a solid start adding 51 runs stand in 6.2 overs. Phillips was unfortunately run out and after successful open stand Kiwis ‘ A’ team batters were unable to maintain momentum and lost their wickets at regular intervals. Sri Lanka ‘A’ spinners led by Wanuja Sahan did the damage.
All-rounder Sonal Dinusha also bowled well to pick 2 wickets giving away 10 runs in his 5 over spell while off spinner Ravindu Fernando took 1 for 24. Earlier Sri Lanka ‘A’ opener Kamil Mishara hit superb knock of 49-ball 71 with 12 fours and a six to make the tone but they were struggling at 126 for 5 wickets after 18.4 overs.
However skipper Sahan Arachchige struck a fluent knock of 66 in 81 balls with 7 fours and a six well supported by bowling al-rounder Milan Ratnayake who scored useful knock of 53 in 89 balls with 3 fours and six. Sahan and Milan added remarkable 110 runs sixth wicket stand to build up the innings. Sri Lanka ‘A’ were bundled out for 261 with 4 balls to spare. Kirsten Clarke the right arm medium paceman 2 for 42 and leg spinner Adithya Ashok 2 for 45 were the successful bowlers of the visiting team.
Two teams will meet in their second official ODI on April 8 at Mahinda Rajapaksa Stadium, Hambantota followed by third one on April 11 at the same venue.
(Courtesy Ceylon Daily News)