Sri Lanka ‘A’ emerged victorious in the three-match unofficial ODI series against South Africa ‘A’, clinching the series 2-0 with a game still to play. The visitors secured a hard-fought 31-run win in the second match, held today (2nd September) at Potchefstroom.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Sri Lanka skipper Pasindu Sooriyabandara decided to stick with an unchanged playing XI. Openers Kamil Mishara and Lahiru Udara took the field, but their partnership was short-lived as Mishara was dismissed for just 10 runs in the 6th over.
The star of the previous match, Nuwanidu Fernando, fell cheaply for 2 runs, while captain Sooriyabandara contributed 21 runs before being dismissed. With Sri Lanka struggling at 85/3, Udara and Sahan Arachchige stabilized the innings, forging a crucial 72-run partnership for the 4th wicket.
Lahiru Udara played a pivotal role, top-scoring with 86 runs off 95 balls, including 11 boundaries and a six. Sahan Arachchige provided solid support with a 56-ball 52, featuring 4 fours and a six. Late contributions from Chamindu Wickramasinghe (48) and Sonal Dinusha (37*), ensured Sri Lanka posted a competitive total on the scoreboard.
In their chase, South Africa ‘A’ struggled against Sri Lanka's disciplined bowling attack, eventually being bowled out for 239. The standout performer with the ball was wrist-spinner Dushan Hemantha, who dismantled the hosts’ batting lineup with a remarkable five-wicket haul.
The final match of the series is set to take place on 4th September at the same venue, where Sri Lanka ‘A’ will look to complete a clean sweep.
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