Potchefstroom, South Africa – September 1, 2024
The Sri Lanka A cricket team kicked off their tour of South Africa with a resounding 93-run victory in the first unofficial one-day match against South Africa A. The match, which concluded last night (August 31) local time, was held at Potchefstroom.
South African captain Matthew Breetzke won the toss and opted to field first, allowing Sri Lanka to set a formidable total of 298 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs. Nuwanidu Fernando, batting at number three, was the standout performer for Sri Lanka, scoring a brilliant 97 off 101 balls, including 8 fours and a six.
Opening batsman Kamil Mishara also made a significant contribution with 71 runs, sharing a crucial 101-run partnership for the second wicket with Nuwanidu. Lower down the order, Chamindu Wickramasinghe bolstered Sri Lanka’s innings with an aggressive 55 off just 39 balls, hitting 3 sixes and 4 fours.
For South Africa, Andile Phehlukwayo (3/38) and Tristan Luus (3/72) were the pick of the bowlers, each taking three wickets.
In response, the South African A team struggled to chase down the target, managing only 205 runs in 36.5 overs. Tony de Zorzi was the top scorer for the hosts with a quickfire 53 off 48 balls, but his efforts were in vain as Sri Lanka’s bowlers dominated the innings.
Vanuja Sahan (3/41) and Dushan Hemantha (3/34) were the stars with the ball for Sri Lanka, each claiming three wickets to secure a comprehensive victory for their side.
Nuwanidu Fernando was deservedly named Man of the Match for his outstanding innings. The second one-day match between the two teams is scheduled for tomorrow (September 2).
This victory sets a positive tone for the Sri Lanka A team as they continue their tour of South Africa, aiming to build on this strong performance.
