Tharanga ton dominates day

On Monday Sri Lanka completed a fantastic comeback at Lord’s in the first Test against England, and they appear to have carried the momentum into their lastest tour match. the tourists chalked up 283/4 on the first day at Hove.

Mahela Jaywardene won the toss and elected to bat and the Sri Lankan openers, Upul Tharanga and Jehan Mubarak, set the platform for a good Sri Lankan score with a partnership of 73. Mubarak in particular had a point to prove after receiving a right going over from Matthew Hoggard, and he batted 69 minutes for 26 before falling to young Timothy Linley, caught by Heather.

Sri Lanka kicked on, with Tharanga reaching his hundred off 174 balls. He was well supported by Vandort in a 113 run partnership to put the Sri Lankans well in control. Cristopher Nash eventually trapped Vandort lbw to remove him for 44 in the last over before lunch. Kumar Sangakkara followed after a slow 17 to bring the hero of Lord’s, captain Jayawardene to the crease. Jayawardene continued his good form, making a quick 45 not out before the close of play. This included 17 off one Oliver Raynor over.

Eventually Sri Lanka got the man they wanted with the second new ball. Tharanga went to pull Luke Wright and found James Kirtley, having made 140. The tourists finished in a good position at 283/4. If they bowl better than they did at Lord’s, they might be alright yet.

Sri Lanka 283-4
Upul Tharanga 140, Mahela Jayawardene 45*
Timothy Linley 1-22, Christopher Nash 1-26, Luke Wright 1-43, Duncan Spencer 1-65