A compelling contest is unfolding at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, where West Indies Academy reached 273 for 5 at stumps on Day 2 of the first unofficial Test, trailing Sri Lanka Emerging Players by 83 runs.

Sri Lanka Emerging Players, resuming their first innings overnight, were lifted by a monumental effort from wicketkeeper-batter Anjala Bandara, whose patient and authoritative 163 anchored the hosts to 356 in 90.2 overs. Bandara batted through long spells of pressure, striking 19 boundaries in a marathon innings that defined Sri Lanka’s total.

He found valuable support from Nisala Abeyratne, who contributed a steady 48, while Sharujan Shanmuganathan (25) and Asitha Wanninayake (41) ensured useful partnerships during the middle phase of the innings. However, West Indies Academy’s bowlers maintained discipline throughout, with Johann Layne (3/68) and Ryan Bandoo (3/45) leading the attack. Jediah Blades chipped in with two wickets as Sri Lanka’s lower order was eventually wrapped up for 356.

In reply, West Indies Academy responded with composure and intent, building their innings through several key contributions. Mavendra Dindyal played a fluent knock of 60, while Damel Evelyn (35) provided early momentum. Shaqkere Parris then anchored the middle order with a patient 55, absorbing pressure and rotating the strike effectively.

At the heart of the visitors’ resistance was skipper Rivaldo Clarke, who remained unbeaten on 72 at stumps, guiding his side into a strong position alongside Amari Goodridge (14*). Their unbroken stand ensured West Indies Academy ended the day within touching distance of Sri Lanka’s first-innings total.

Sri Lanka’s bowling effort was spearheaded by Shakthi Udara, who impressed with figures of 3 for 85 from 26 disciplined overs. Chamod Battage and Nisala Abeyratne picked up a wicket apiece, but the hosts will be concerned about allowing the visitors to build sustained partnerships.

With three days still remaining, the match is finely poised. Sri Lanka Emerging Players will look to wrap up the West Indies Academy innings quickly on Day 3, while the visitors will aim to erase the deficit and push for a first-innings lead in Hambantota.

Chief Scores

Sri Lanka Emerging Players – 356 (90.2 overs)
Anjala Bandara 163, Asitha Wanninayake 41, Nisala Abeyratne 48, Sharujan Shanmuganathan 25
Ryan Bandoo 3/45, Johann Layne 3/68, Jediah Blades 2/83

West Indies Academy – 273/5 (72 overs)
Rivaldo Clarke 72*, Mavendra Dindyal 60, Shaqkere Parris 55, Damel Evelyn 35
Shakthi Udara 3/85, Nisala Abeyratne 1/56, Chamod Battage 1/29

Status: West Indies Academy trail by 83 runs at stumps on Day 2