Nugawela Central on top

S.M. Jiffrey Abdeen - Kandy Sports Correspondent

A fine allround performance by Sri Lanka Under 19 cricketer Saranga Rajaguru put Nugawela Central College in a strong position in their 7th Battle of the Centrals for the C.W.W. Kannangara Trophy against Wallala Central College which began at Police Grounds, Kandy yesterday.

Nugawela Central College winning the toss and taking strike after an early toss were helped through a fine second wicket stand of 171 between Saranga Rajaguru (90) and Sampath Amunugama (74) which lifted their innings into a comfortable position. But with their departure Nugawela’s innings folded up for 208 losing their last 7 wickets for 25 runs.

Saranga Rajaguru’s innings was studded with 5 sixes, 14 fours second off only 45 deliveries. Sampath Amunugama had 1 six and 14 fours in his knock of 74 scored off 80 balls. Off spinner S. Randika took 6 for 58 and was supported by medium pacer R.S. Sapumal 3 for 24.

When Wallala Central College batted, they were all at sea against the leg spin of Saranga Rajaguru who took 7 for 50. Only S. Randika showed some confidence scoring 49 with 8 fours. At close Nugawela Central had scored 45 for 1 in 9 overs

Nugawela Central 208 all out in 37 overs (Saranga Rajaguru 90, Sampath Amunugama 74, C. Wanigasekera 13, S. Randika 6 for 58, R.S. Sapumal 3 for 24) and 45 for 1 in 9 overs (Saranga Rajaguru 39 not out).

Wallala Central 116 all out in 31.1 overs (E. Pannage 13, S. Randika 49, S. Sankalpa 12, Saranga Rajaguru 7 for 50, Sampath Amunugama 2 for 56).