Sri Lanka qualify for World Cup in style

Rex Clementine in Abu Dhabi

Sri Lanka are through to the ICC T-20 World Cup following their big win over Ireland yesterday here at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium. The former champions started off poorly after being told to bat first losing three wickets for eight runs but a record 123 run stand for the fourth wicket between Wanindu Hasaranga and Pathum Nissanka bailed them out. Having set Ireland a target of 172, Sri Lanka bowled them out for 101 to win by 70 runs

Dasun Shanaka’s side had recorded a big win in their first game against Namibia as well on  Monday and following yesterday’s win, they are certain of topping the group which means they will avoid the Asian bloc in the business end of the competition.

They will be in the easier group in the Super 12 stage playing alongside West Indies, Australia, England, South Africa and one other qualifier.

There were scary scenes here as Ireland reduced Sri Lanka to eight for three inside two overs as left-arm quick Joshua Little took two wickets in two balls. Without letting Bhanuka Rajapaksa face the hat-trick ball, they gambled by promoting Wanindu Hasaranga to number five slot. That paid rich dividends as Hasaranga added a career best 71 off 47 balls with ten fours and one six to give Sri Lanka a commanding total.

Hassaranga was well backed up by Pathum Nissanka, who finished on 61 off 46 balls with six fours and one six.

The pair were involved in a record 123 run stand for the fourth wicket that came off just 82 balls.

It was the introduction of off-spinner Simi Singh in the Power Play that helped Sri Lanka to cut loose as Hasaranga cashed in with an array of boundaries.

Sri Lanka did not look back from thereon posting a commanding total.

Skipper Dasun Shanaka’s big hitting came in handy in the death overs as he finished off well taking Sri Lanka’s score beyond 170. He was unbeaten on 21.

Ireland never had any momentum during the run chase and were shot out for 101 without utilizing their 20 overs as they struggled against the spinners. Maheesh Theekshana picked up three for 17 while Hasaranga was equally good conceding just 12 runs in his four overs for one wicket.

Sri Lanka will now move to one of their favourite venues; Sharjah where they will play Netherlands in their last qualifying round game. The Dutch are knocked out of the competition having lost both their games.