Shevon Daniel’s brilliant 92 keeps Sri Lanka on track

On day 2 of the 2^nd Youth test between Sri Lanka U19 & England U19, England who began the day on 268/4, only managed to score 113 runs for their remaining 6 wickets. In reply to England’s 381, Sri Lanka were on 203/2 at stumps on Day 2.

The hosts who resumed the day on 268/4 lost their first wicket of the day after adding just 13 runs to the overnight score. Opening batter Harry Singh, who batted throughout day 01 became the 2^nd centurion of the innings. His knock of 104 included only 6 boundaries. Singh also departed shortly after as the hosts were reduced to 282/6 at the start of day 2.

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But English number 7, James Sales managed to score a well-made counter attacking knock 52 off 66 deliveries to bring in some momentum before they were bowled out for 381 in 122.2 overs. In bowling, skipper Raveen de Silva, Duvindu Ranatunga, Wanuja Sahan and Sahan Mihira all took 2 wickets each.

Sri Lanka lost their centurion from the previous encounter Asitha Wanninayake early for just 4 runs. But Abhisheak Liyanaarachchi and Shevon Daniel batted extremely well with attacking intent to put the pressure back on the hosts.

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After a 116-run partnership for the 2^nd wicket, Liyanaarachchi unfortunately departed just 1 run short of a well-deserved half century, getting run out. But the flow of runs and the intent continued for Sri Lanka as the experienced youth duo of Daniel and Pawan Pathiraja took control of the game completely.

The pair didn’t give any room for the hosts to make a comeback before stumps on day 2 as the 3^rd wicket partnership flourished. With the current stand on 77 and the Sri Lankan youth total on 203/2, stumps were called for day 2 with the visitors in a very strong position.

Daniel, the most successful batter of the day for Sri Lanka was unbeaten on 92, a knock which included 15 boundaries. He will be looking forward to go big on day 3 and give Sri Lanka a sizable lead. His partner Pathiraja was on 37 and if he can go on to make a big one as well, Sri Lanka will walk out on top on day 3.

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