Gamage’s all-round brilliance puts Kingswood in command at Asgiriya
A brilliant all-round performance from Kavija Gamage put Kingswood College on top at stumps on the second day against Dharmaraja College, who were completely outdone at the 119th Battle of the Maroons at Asgiriya ground yesterday. Despite losing the toss, Kingswood managed to post 226 runs while losing wickets regularly following Gamage’s grand recovery role. He struck a well-deserved century, 112 runs off 149 deliveries with 13 fours and two sixes, coming in at fourth when Kingswood were three down for 58. The right-hander kept on fighting, while his team mates fell at the other end to see his side reach a respectable total. Leg-spinner Sasith Bandara spearheaded the Rajans, claiming 5 for 80 after a marathon run of 25 overs, while fellow leg-spinner Keshana Gunawardena picked three scalps.
Coming in with confidence, the Rajans were shocked Gamage struck in the very first ball with his off-spins. Though wickets fell at quick sessions, Mandil Gunawardena (59) and Sasith Bandara (46) kept Kingswood at bay to see Dharmaraja through, but 66 runs behind. This was after a brilliant bowling display from off-spinners Kenula Pihilianga, who picked 5 for 42 with Gamage completing at 4 for 70. By stumps on the second day Kingswood had reached 102 runs for the loss of two wickets with opener Adhel Sheriff unbeaten on 39 off 97 deliveries with four boundaries, a lead of 168 runs that could put them in a winning position. The match ends today.
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