Wood ton wins warmup

Matthew Wood struck a stunning century, followed up by Charl Willoughby ripping through Sri Lanka’s batting order to defeat the tourists in a one day game at Taunton.

After Lasith Malinga dismissed John Francis first ball, Wood and Arul Suppiah started building a formidable partnership of 164 in quick time to give Somerset the upper hand. But after Suppiah got out, the real fireworks began. Cameron White flayed the Murali-less Sri Lankan attack to all parts for 64 off 48, with 3 sixes. Wood motored along nicely, reaching his century off 101 balls.

Ruchira Perera finally had Wood caught by Dilhara Fernando for 116, but that just brought James Hildreth to the crease. Hildreth hit a devastating unbeaten 46 in just 24 balls. Malinga managed to bowl White and Durston in quick succession, but the damage was done. Somerset’s 50 overs closed on 332/6, the last wicket being Gazzard run out looking for quick runs at the end.

Sri Lanka’s reply began the worst possible way when Willoughby struck first ball, rapping Upul Tharanga on the pads. The experienced duo of Sanath Jayasuria and Mahela Jayawardene also fell to Willoughby soon after to leave Sri Lanka reeling at 15/3.

Kumar Sangakkara, Tillekaratne Dilshan and Prasanna Jayawardene all managed to chalk up half centuries, but none of the three managed to go on and bat Sri Lanka to victory. When Dilshan was run out three short of his century, that was the ball game and Willoughby came back to wrap up the tail and claim 6/43.

Somerset 332/6
Matthew Wood 116, Arul Suppiah 72
Lasith Malinga 3-55, Dilhara Fernando 1-53

Sri Lanka 281 all out
Tillekaratne Dilshan 97, Prasanna Jayawardene 55
Charl Willoughby 6-43, Cameron White 1-37