Sri Lanka makes measured start against WI on rain-hit first day

DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka (CMC):

OPENER PULINDU Perera struck a half-century as Sri Lanka Under-19s made a measured start on the opening day of the first Youth ‘Test’ against West Indies Under-19s yesterday.

Following a rain delay which resulted in only 38 overs at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, the hosts reached 163 for three at the close, with Perera top-scoring with 71.

Captain Sineth Jayawardene chipped in with 34 while Ravishan Nethsara struck 31, as Sri Lanka Under-19s batted well in partnerships after winning the toss.

Once the weather cleared, Perera took the initiative in stitching together two successive half-century stands to keep the visitors starved of major success.

The 17-year-old, who belted 155 in the final Youth ODI against West Indies U19s last week, again scored quickly, striking eight fours and two sixes in a 66-ball knock as he posted 64 for the first wicket with Jayawardene and 57 for the second wicket with Nethsara.

Jayawardene, another left-hander, scored at a run per ball with seven fours while Nethsara, in contrast, produced a patient innings lasting 81 balls and including three fours.

Once Perera fell, the right-handed Nethsara held the innings together and guided Sri Lanka safely to the close.