Sasith Bandara's unbeaten 96 gives Sri Lanka youngsters a strong start
Sri Lanka CricketNews article
By the close of the first day (on the 9th) of the three-day match against Pakistan Under-17s in Multan, the Sri Lanka Under-17 team, batting in their first innings, had reached 277 for 8.
Middle-order batter Sasith Bandara challenged the decision of the Pakistan captain, who won the toss and invited Sri Lanka to bat first, finishing the day unbeaten on 96 from 186 balls with 11 fours. With a century within sight, Sasith's innings was a huge help in lifting Sri Lanka's scoreboard.
Raveen Sachintha gave Sasith excellent support, remaining unbeaten on 38 from 60 balls with 5 fours. The pair thus built an unbroken ninth-wicket stand of 79 runs, managing to give the Sri Lankan innings a strong finish.
In addition, Chenuka Dodangoda made 26 from 50 balls with 3 fours, while opening batter Methuka Gunaratne scored 22 from 40 balls with 4 fours.
Among the Pakistan bowlers, Mohammad Yaqoob Khan, Mohammad Saim and Mohammad Ihsan took 2 wickets each. Abdullah Ahmad Butt also claimed one wicket.
Accordingly, the Sri Lankan youngsters, on 277 for 8 at the end of the first day, will be hoping to strengthen their innings further on the second day.
Sri Lanka Under-17 first innings 277 for 8 (83 overs) – Sasith Bandara 96 not out, Raveen Sachintha 38 not out, Chenuka Dodangoda 26, Methuka Gunaratne 22, Mohammad Yaqoob Khan 33/2, Mohammad Saim 45/2, Mohammad Ihsan 55/2
Based on Sri Lanka Cricket reporting