Kiwis, Lankans move to Super League
Tall right-handed opener Harry Boam batted through New Zealand’s
196-run chase to secure a comfortable win over Sri Lanka and ensure the
hosts finished on top of Group C of the ICC Under 19 World Cup in
Christchurch, New Zealand yesterday.
Finishing unbeaten on 85, Boam anchored three key partnerships
through the top order to help his team through to a Super League
quarter-final showdown against Australia on Sunday.
New Zealand began their run chase with a momentary falter, losing a
wicket in the second over, but it didn’t put the Kiwis off their stride.
Boam and Jimmy Neesham combined for a 74 run partnership before the
hard-hitting Neesham skied a delivery and was caught three runs short of
a half-century off just 41 balls.
Corey Anderson then proceeded to hit five boundaries but was out to a
stunning outfield running catch by Charith Jayampathi who scampered 25
metres and dived forward with both hands outstretched to take the catch
just inside the long on boundary.
That was the last wicket Sri Lanka captured as Boam and captain Craig
Cachopa confidently accumulated the necessary runs with more than six
overs to spare, Boam hitting seven fours and a six in his 151-ball stay
at the crease.
Batting first at Christhurch’s Queen Elizabeth II Park, Sri Lanka had
started slowly and lost early wickets, waiting until the 29th over
before unleashing any fireworks. It was left hander, Dhanishka
Gunathillike, who got things moving. With the score at 136 for nine and
the catering staff started preparing for an early lunch, Gunathillike
took to the New Zealand bowlers, hitting them back over their heads, to
score an outstanding 69.
The final partnership added 59 runs, giving the side a creditable
total to defend. New Zealand’s Tim Johnston again impressed with his
varied and intelligent off spin, breaking two important middle order
partnerships.
Christchurch
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