How Did Seneviratne’s Five-Wicket Haul Lead to Sri Lanka's Win Over Nepal?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sethmika Seneviratne showcased exceptional bowling skills with 5-25.
- Sri Lanka displayed strong teamwork in their chase.
- Nepal suffered a rapid collapse after a steady start.
- Strong partnerships were crucial for Sri Lanka's victory.
- Next match for Sri Lanka will be against Afghanistan.
Dubai, December 13 (NationPress) Sethmika Seneviratne delivered a remarkable five-wicket haul, propelling Sri Lanka to a convincing eight-wicket victory over Nepal in their Group B encounter of the Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup held at The Sevens Stadium on Saturday.
After being invited to bat first by Sri Lanka captain Vimath Dinsara, Nepal began steadily, reaching 30 without losing a wicket. However, a crucial run-out of Niraj Kumar Yadav for 10 in the eighth over triggered a swift collapse.
Seneviratne showcased his bowling prowess in consecutive spells, taking out Sahil Patel (12), Vansh Chhetri (0), and Dilsad Ali (0), leaving Nepal in disarray at 37/4, as they lost four wickets for a mere seven runs in just six overs.
Although captain Ashok Dhami and Cibrin Shrestha (18) provided a brief resistance with a 24-run partnership, Rasith Nimsara struck early in the 21st over to dismiss Dhami for nine. Nepal then collapsed to 82 all out, with Shrestha being the top scorer.
Seneviratne finished with impressive figures of 5-25, supported by teammates Rasith Nimsara, Vigneshwaran Akash, Dulnith Sigera, and Chamika Heenatigala, each contributing with a wicket.
During their chase of 83, Sri Lanka faced a minor setback at 25/2, with Dayanand Mandal claiming one wicket. However, Dimantha Mahavithana (39) and Kavija Gamage (24) ensured a smooth progression towards victory.
Their unbroken 59-run partnership for the third wicket led Sri Lanka to triumph with 35.1 overs remaining. Sri Lanka will next compete against Afghanistan at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on Monday, while Nepal will face Bangladesh on the same day.
Brief scores:
Nepal U19 82 all out in 28.5 overs (Cibrin Shrestha 18, Sethmika Seneviratne 5-25, Dulnith Sigera 1-3) lost to Sri Lanka U19 84/2 in 14.5 overs (Dimantha Mahavithana 39 not out, Kavija Gamage 24 not out, Dayanand Mandal 1-16) by eight wickets.