Kandy lays platform for massive total on first day

Kasu Vidura and Kamil Mishara put together an opening partnership of 123 for Kandy

Oshada Fernando of Kandy drives during his unbeaten innings of 91

National Super League 4-day final  

By Sa’adi Thawfeeq

Kandy’s top order batting that has been a feature of the National Super League 4-day tournament did not disappoint on the opening day of the final against Jaffna at the Galle International Cricket Stadium

Kandy skipper Kamindu Mendis on his way to another half-century

yesterday when they came up with a commanding total of 288-2 after choosing to bat first.

The foundations for a big Kandy first innings score were laid by openers Kamil Mishara and Kasun Vidura who put on 123 with both batsmen completing their respective fifties. Mishara followed his half-century in the semi-final against Galle with another fine innings of 56 off 126 balls (3 fours, 1 six). Vidura who was more positive of the two batters made 71 off 124 balls (3 fours, 1 six).

Following their dismissals at 123 and 134, Jaffna were further frustrated by the inform pair Oshada Fernando and skipper Kamindu Mendis who have so far figured in a partnership of 154 which certainly is not a good sign for the opposition.

When bad light brought an early end to the day’s proceedings with seven overs yet to be bowled, Fernando was nine short of what would be his fourth century of the tournament ending the day at 91* scored off 133 balls with 10 fours and a six.

Mendis who has been in the form of his life crossed the fifty-run mark for the eighth time in 11 innings and was looking good for another big innings closing the day at 57* off 117 balls (3 fours).

With Niroshan Dickwella, Lahiru Udara and Sahan Arachchige to follow, Jaffna will be staring down the barrel of a gun with Kandy looking ominous of posting a massive first innings total.

The two wickets to fall for the day was taken by Jaffna skipper Dhananjaya de Silva with his off breaks. De Silva was the only successful bowler of the seven used during the day as Jaffna tried to curtail Kandy’s strong batting. The match will continue on its second day today.

DAY ONE SCORES

Kandy 288-2 at close (Kamil Mishara 56, Kasun Vidura 71, Oshada Fernando 91*, Kamindu Mendis 57*, Dhananjaya de Silva 2/70) v Jaffna.