UAE go down fighting against Sri Lanka colts

After Shehan Jayasuriya’s century had given Sri Lanka a challenging total of 236, UAE, at one stage, were looking in a strong position to chase down the target. But once the solid partnership between Shaiman Anwar and Saqib Ali was broken, none of the other batsmen succeeded as UAE managed to reach 205 for nine in 50 overs.

Chasing a tricky target, UAE received early jolts when they lost Abdul Shakoor for a duck and then Swapnil Patil for 10. But Anwar, who scored an unbeaten century in the first match, and Ali recovered the innings sharing a brilliant 83-run stand for the third wicket.

After Anwar was out scoring a patient 53 from 85 balls that consisted of only three boundaries, UAE lost their way with Ali, who hit a superb 71 from 109 deliveries including three fours and a six, also followed him to the pavilion.

UAE then lost their way as the remaining batsmen could only make small contributions that proved to insufficient in the end. Amjad Khan chipped in with 20 from 22 deliveries. Lahiru Jayaratne was the pick of the bowler for Sri Lanka to claim three wickets while Charith Jayampathi and Chathuranga Kumara shared two each. Earlier, opting to bat first, Shehan Jayasuriya powered to a superb century scoring 101 in 121 balls including four boundaries and three sixes. He was also involved in fruitful partnerships to ensure Sri Lanka reached a healthy 235 for eight in 50 overs. Jayasuriya and his fellow opener Udara Jayasundera (38) began the proceedings on a positive note sharing 57 runs for the opening wicket. After Jayasudera was removed by Rohan Mustafa, Jayasuriya shared another vital 45 runs for the second wicket with Niroshan Dickwella (19).

Nazir Aziz further dented the progress claiming three wickets before Jayasuriya kept his focus to score a well-crafted century. Danushka Gunathilaka chipped in with a crucial 23 to ensure Sri Lanka reached a fine total. UAE next play their important match against Bangladesh Under-23 on Thursday, August 22, which they would have to win if they were to fancy their chances of qualifying to the knockout stage.