In the only U19 traditional encounter which began today, S.Thomas’ College posted a mammoth total of 353/3 against St. Benedict’s College.
In this traditional clash, Benedictines won the toss and elected to field first. Backing up their Captain’s decision, the Benedictine bowlers managed to provide their team with a decent start, taking 3 quick wickets in the first session. However, the rest of their plans were completely diminished when the Thomian Skipper Mahith Perera and Dineth Gunawardana steadied the ship and managed to change fortunes around.
The pair put together an unbroken stand of 306 runs for the fourth wicket in just 322 deliveries. Skipper Perera blasted a phenomenal 151 striking better than a run a ball, while his partner Gunawardana took his time but damaged the confidence of the opposition with a class 150. With a total of 353, Thomians decided to declare their innings.
The St. Benedict’s openers were watchful to begin with and put together 38 runs for the first wicket before Abheeth Paranavidana struck the first blow. There were no more damages done to the Benedictines as they were 47/1 at stumps. Trailing by 306 runs, it will be a huge test for the Benedictines to score runs under pressure on Day 2.
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