In Short
- Dhananjaya de Silva registered his career-best ODI score of 93
- Dhananjaya helped Sri Lanka post a total of 213
- Maheesh Theekshana took three wickets as SL beat NED by 21 runs
By India Today Sports DeskSri Lanka overcame a formidable challenge from the Netherlands, thanks to outstanding performances by Dhananjaya de Silva and Maheesh Theekshana in a thrilling match at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2023. Sri Lanka, who were in trouble at 96 for six, managed to post a total of 213, with Dhananjaya’s impressive knock of 93 being the highlight.
The Netherlands started strongly, dismissing Sri Lanka’s opener Pathum Nissanka for a duck off the first ball, setting the tone for an intense encounter. The Dutch team continued their impressive display, reducing Sri Lanka to 34 for four, with Logan van Beek (3/26) showcasing his bowling skills, just days after his heroic batting performance against the West Indies.
Dhananjaya de Silva’s superb innings helped Sri Lanka recover from the precarious situation. His partnership with Dimuth Karunaratne (33) provided stability, but Saqib Zulfiqar (2/48) dismissed both the batters. However, Wanindu Hasaranga (20) and Dhananjaya contributed a crucial 35-run partnership to take Sri Lanka past the 200-run mark. Bas de Leede (3/42) dismissed both set batters, and it was then left to Maheesh Theekshana to provide the final push.
While chasing, the Netherlands’ openers failed to make an impact, with Lahiru Kumara and Dilshan Madushanka picking up early wickets. However, Wesley Barresi (52) and Bas de Leede (41) formed a resilient partnership, reigniting hopes of victory for the Dutch team. Unfortunately for them, a run-out by Dasun Shanaka ended Barresi’s innings. Teja Nidamanuru fell for a duck, becoming Theekshana’s first victim.
Scott Edwards joined his captain, Bas de Leede, and the duo put on a 36-run partnership, bringing the Netherlands closer to the target. However, Theekshana’s exceptional bowling skills turned the match in Sri Lanka’s favour. He took two quick wickets in the same over, including the crucial dismissal of Van Beek. Another run-out added to the Netherlands’ woes, leaving them struggling at 151 for eight.
Despite a valiant effort from Scott Edwards (67*), the Netherlands fell short by 21 runs. Edwards received minimal support from the lower order, and Sri Lanka’s captain, Dasun Shanaka, claimed the final wicket to secure victory for his team.
Emanuel Schmitt
Jakob Auer
