In an exhilarating match of the 2023 ODI World Cup qualifying tournament, the Sri Lankan team secured a resounding win by 133 runs against Ireland today (25).
Winning the toss, the Irish skipper elected to field first. Despite Ireland’s early breakthroughs, Sri Lanka’s opening batsman Dimuth Karunaratne and Sadheera Samarawickrama formed a formidable partnership of 168 runs for the third wicket. Karunaratne showcased his talent by smashing his maiden ODI century, scoring an impressive 103 runs. Samarawickrama contributed 82 runs, while Dhananjaya de Silva remained unbeaten with 42 runs. Sri Lanka encountered a minor setback after Karunaratne’s dismissal, losing 6 wickets for 90 runs. Notably, this was the first time Sri Lanka was bowled out before completing their 50 overs, with their innings ending at 49.5 overs.
In the chase, Curtis Camper emerged as the top scorer for Ireland, mustering 39 runs off 31 balls. His innings included 4 fours and a six. Harry Tector contributed 33 runs, and Jos Little, batting at the end, added 20 runs.
Once again, Vanindu Hasaranga showcased his bowling prowess, claiming 5 wickets. Remarkably, he has taken a total of 16 wickets throughout all three matches of the tournament. However, Hasaranga faced a challenging onslaught this time, conceding 79 runs.
Mahisash Teixana contributed 2 wickets for 29 runs, while Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, and Dasun Shanaka took one wicket each.
The standout performer of the match was Dimuth Karunaratne, who notched a century and played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s victory.
