Rain washes out Sri Lanka’s opener ODI against Zimbabwe

Colombo, Jan 06 (Daily Mirror) - Charith Asalanka's outstanding century in the one-day international series opener between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe was cut short by rain, adding a touch of disappointment to an otherwise impressive performance.

Before the weather intervened, Asalanka showcased his batting prowess, amassing 101 runs off 95 deliveries, featuring four sixes and five boundaries. Under the captaincy of Kusal Mendis, Sri Lanka elected to bat first at R. Premadasa Stadium, concluding their innings with a total of 273 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 50 overs.

Zimbabwe gained an early advantage as their seamer, Richard Ngarava, left an impact in the game. In the fifth ball of the first over, Ngarava dismissed Avishka Fernando, who was yet to score, caught behind by wicketkeeper Clive Madande.

Despite this setback, Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama established a promising partnership, contributing 63 runs for the second wicket. However, Ngarava struck again, dismissing Samarawickrama for a commendable 41 runs, caught at slip by Craig Erwin. Mendis, with 46 runs to his credit, was eventually run out.

The excitement was abruptly halted by rain, with Zimbabwe struggling at 2-12 in four overs. 

The 2nd ODI will be played on 8th January, Monday at 2.30 at R. Premadasa Stadium.