Dewald Brevis’ unbeaten 98 off 71 balls and Beyers Swanepoel’s unbeaten 43 off 28 balls helped South Africa A chase down a target of 265 to win the first ODI against Sri Lank A in Kandy.
The home side opted to bat first and put 264-8 on the board.
Nishan Madushka (68), Ashen Bandara (41) and Janith Liyanage (76*) were the key contributors to Sri Lanka A’s total.
Lutho Sipamla was the main bowler for SA A taking 3-33, and with the help from Lizaad Williams and Swanepoel, helped SA A take early wickets to pin the hosts back at 39-3.
Madushka, despite losing his partner Sahan Arachchige (22) to Sipamla, helped SL A pass the 100-run mark. Bandra was effective to help take his side close to 200 before Brevis dismissed him.
Wellalage hung around long enough to help the hosts to 236 before losing his wicket to Sipamla for his third.
It was Liyanage that stole the show for his side to take them to a competitive total.
South Africa’s top order struggled to impress. They were down 6 for 155 with Keegan Petersen’s 42 being the highest score amongst the top six.
In stepped Brevis and Swanepoel who shared a partnership of 113 to take the SA side to a 4-wicket victory.
Brevis hit six fours and seven sixes for his 98* and Swanepoel hit five fours and a six for his 42*.
