England Under-19s secured a thrilling 30-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second One-Day International (ODI) at Hove, leveling the three-match series at 1-1.
Freddie McCann's magnificent 174-run knock propelled England to a formidable total of 360 for 7. The left-hander's innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression, featuring 22 boundaries and three sixes. Noah Thain provided valuable support with a well-crafted 66.
Sri Lanka's chase got off to a promising start, with Pulindu Perera and Gayana Weerasinghe forging a 110-run partnership. However, McCann's diving catch to dismiss Weerasinghe off Farhan Ahmed's bowling proved to be a turning point.
Perera's dismissal for 64 left Sri Lanka in a precarious position. Despite a valiant effort from Luc Benkenstein, who claimed four wickets, the Sri Lankan batsmen struggled to keep up with the required run rate. They were eventually bowled out for 330 in 49.2 overs.
England's innings had begun steadily, with McCann and Thain laying the foundation with a 127-run partnership. Thain's impressive 66 included eight fours and a six.
After Thain's departure, McCann accelerated his scoring, reaching his century in 97 balls. He continued to dominate the Sri Lankan bowlers, hitting boundaries at will. Charlie Allison (46) and Dom Kelly (32 not out) provided valuable contributions in the latter stages of the innings.
Dinura Kalupahana was the most successful Sri Lankan bowler, claiming five wickets for 81 runs. However, his efforts were not enough to prevent England from securing a crucial victory.
Tags: #EnglandU19s, #SriLankaU19s, #FreddieMcCann, #ODI, #Cricket
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