Bedingham's Heroics Power South Africa 'A' to Victory in Final ODI Against Sri Lanka 'A'

David Bedingham's extraordinary century guided South Africa 'A' to a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka 'A' in the third and final unofficial ODI at Potchefstroom, though the visitors claimed the series 2-1.

After electing to bat first, Sri Lanka 'A' put on a commanding total of 308/6, thanks to half-centuries from Lahiru Udara (90), Chamindu Wickramasinghe (70*), and Nuwanidu Fernando (52). Late-order batter Dinura Kalupahana chipped in with a vital 45*, ensuring Sri Lanka crossed the 300-run mark. South Africa’s leg-spinner Dewald Brevis was the standout bowler, picking up 4 wickets for 46 runs.

Despite Sri Lanka's impressive total, Bedingham stole the show with an unbeaten 188 off 129 balls, showcasing a masterclass in stroke play. His innings, which featured 20 fours and 5 sixes, came at a blistering strike rate of 145.74. Supported by Matthew Breetzke (36) and Meeka-eel Prince (31), Bedingham's brilliance ensured South Africa 'A' chased down the target in just 42.5 overs.

Though wrist-spinner Dushan Hemantha was effective once again for Sri Lanka, claiming 2 wickets for 58 runs, the visitors couldn’t contain Bedingham, whose knock sealed the win for the hosts.

While South Africa ‘A’ ended the series on a high, Sri Lanka 'A' will take solace in their series triumph after winning the first two matches. The two teams will now turn their focus to the upcoming unofficial Test series, which begins on 8th September in Kimberley.

Brief Scores:

• Sri Lanka ‘A’: 308/6 (50) - Lahiru Udara 90, Chamindu Wickramasinghe 70*, Nuwanidu Fernando 52, Dinura Kalupahana 45*; Dewald Brevis 4/46
• South Africa ‘A’: 311/5 (42.5) - David Bedingham 188*, Matthew Breetzke 36, Meeka-eel Prince 31, Tony de Zorzi 25; Dushan Hemantha 2/58
• Result: South Africa 'A' won by 5 wickets