Unbeaten century by Nuwanidu helps Sri Lanka ‘A’ to a draw

Thursday, 17 July 2025 01:34 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

First 4-day unofficial Test against Australia ‘A’

Nuwanidu Fernando’s century helped Sri Lanka ‘A’ draw the first 'test'

Sri Lanka ‘A’ trailing Australia ‘A’ by 214 in the first innings, came up with a solid batting performance in the second to draw the first unofficial 4-day Test against Australia ‘A’ played at the Marrara Stadium in Darwin yesterday.

In reply to Australia ‘A’s 486 after making 272 in their first knock, the Sri Lankans dug in to finish on 280-3 when the match was called off on Wednesday afternoon.

First-drop bat Nuwanidu Fernando made a superb unbeaten 104 off 218 balls, including seven fours and three sixes, ably supported by Pasindu Sooriyabandara (56 off 98 balls, 4 fours, 1 six) and Pavan Rathnayake (56* off 96 balls, 6 fours).

The Australian bowlers were unable to make major in-roads after securing the wickets of openers Lahiru Udara (17) and Kamil Mishara (35).

Fernando and Sooriyabandara starred in a 113-run partnership for the third wicket, before the latter was caught by Nathan McSweeney off the bowling of Liam Scott. It gave the home side a glimmer of hope, but Rathnayake had other ideas, digging in with the centurion to snuff out any chance of an Australian victory.

McSweeney’s two catches – the other to dismiss Mishara off Mitchell Perry – were the highlight in the field for the hosts, to follow his timely innings of 94.

The second four-day unofficial test will take place in Darwin on 20 July.

Scores: Sri Lanka ‘A’ 272 and 280-3 (o/n 49-1) (Kamil Mishara 35, Nuwanidu Fernando 104*, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 56, Pavan Rathnayake 56*)

Australia ‘A’ 486.

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