Nalanda by 66 runs

By Leslie Fernando

CRICKET: Two fine performances by Ashan Priyanjana who stroked a well compiled half century (52 with 1 six and 3 fours) and skipper Milinda Weerasinghe capturing 3 for 28 saw Nalanda defeating their arch rivals Ananda by 66 runs in their 50 over cricket encounter played at the SSC grounds yesterday.

Nalanda electing to bat first made 210 off 49.3 overs. Ashan Priyanjana who top scored with 52 was ably supported by Uthpola Bhaghya (26) Dilshan Munaweera 36 (2 sixes and 3 fours) and Lahiru Aponsu 29 to help well the score. Paceman Madumal Jayaratne claimed 3 for 28 and spinners Malith Gunatilleke 2 for 46 and Udara Peiris 2 for 45 bowled best for Anandians.

Ananda an asking rate of 4.22 for victory were dismissed for 144 in 40 overs. Only skipper Malith Gunatilleke who top scored with 43 off 59 balls with 5 fours and sharaed a useful 36 runs stand with Sameera Wijesuriya unbeaten with 18 for the 7th wicket batted with some courage.Nalanda spinners skipper Milinda Weerasinghe 3 for 32, Dilshan Munaweera 2 for 19 and Amal Atapattu 2 for 11 shared the bowling honours.