Sri Lanka A managed to post a commendable score of 272 for 7 at stumps on day one against West Indies A in their third unofficial Test match at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium today.
With the series leveled on 1-1, Sri Lanka A skipper Lahiru Thirimanne won the toss and elected to bat first on a bright and sunny Tuesday morning. The new opening partnership of Kusal Janith Perera and young Sandun Weerakkody blasted their way to a stunning 133-run opening stand.
Perera clobbered 11 fours during his 85-ball 69 while Weerakkody made 79 off 105 deliveries with 10 fours. Both left-handers were sent back to the pavilion in quick succession by left-arm fast-bowler Delorn Johnson.
Misfiring Thirimanne failed once again as he was caught at slip off Rakheem Cornwall for just 2 runs. Sri Lanka U19 captain and Singer Schoolboy Cricketer of the Year, Charith Asalanka, batting at number 4 managed to score 46 runs off 95 balls with one six and five fours and was also involved in a 56-run stand for the 5th wicket with Roshen Silva.
Silva remained unbeaten on 40 off 87 deliveries with 2 fours as bad light brought a premature end to the first day’s play at around 4.20 pm local time. Dasun Shanaka who was drafted into the team as a fast-bowling all-rounder made a useful 23 down the order.
Apart from Johnson’s 2-wickets, off-spinner Cornwell and leg-spinner Damion Jacobs shared 5 wickets to torment the Lankan middle-order. Lakshan Sandakan who is yet to open his account will come out to bat tomorrow with Silva.
The match will be continued tomorrow for the second day’s play.
Sri Lanka A – 272/7 in 80 overs: Sandun Weerakkody 79, Kusal Janith Perera 69, Charith Asalanka 46, Roshen Silva 40*, Dasun Shanaka 23 Delorn Johnson 2/43, Rakheem Cornwall 3/93, Damion Jacobs 2/64.
