Sri Lanka fought off a stiff challenge by Australia to record a thrilling 3 run win in the second semifinal of Red Bull Campus Cricket World Finals worked off at the Galle International Cricket Stadium today.
The hosts were rocked by a brilliant opening burst by the Australian fast bowlers to be reduced to 14 for 4 in the 4th over before Supeshala Jayathilake partnered with Chamika Karunarathne in a partnership of 54 to get Sri Lanka back on track.
Another entertaining partnership of 67 in quick time for the sixth wicket between Jayathilake and Thilaksha Sumanasiri added much needed impetus to the latter part of the Lankan innings, as they fought back well to put up a competitive 163/6 on the back of Jayathilake’s half century and Sumanasiri’s unbeaten 40.
The Australians came out all guns blazing in pursuit of their target of 164 as they raced to 59 runs in the power play with Hayden Kerr, who also picked up two wickets with the ball, smashing a half century in quick time.
Ranitha Liyanarachchi bowled a crucial spell in the middle overs picking up 2/19 in his quota of four overs as Australia were left with 59 to get off the last five overs.
The hosts eventually managed to hold their nerve at the death with Chamika Karunaratne bowling a brilliant final over to secure a thrilling win and a place in the final against South Africa tomorrow at the same venue.
Chief Scores
Sri Lanka – 163/6 (20 overs) Supeshala Jayathilake 50, Thilaksha Sumanasiri 40*, Chamika Karunaratne 33
Australia – 160/6 (20 overs) Hayden Kerr 54, Ranitha Liyanarachchi 2/19
