Jayasuriya, Kandamby carry Sri Lanka to an imposing total

COLOMBO - Explosive knocks by veteran opener Sanath Jayasuriya and Thilina Kandamby propelled Sri Lanka to 307 for the loss of six wickets against India in the Compaq Cup tri-series One day international at the R. Premadasa stadium here Saturday.

In the inconsequential match ahead of the final between the two teams Monday, Sri Lankan batsmen made the most of lacklustre Indian bowling, after their captain Kumar Sangakarra chose to bat.

The hosts were given a perfect start by Jayasuriya (98) and Tillakaratne Dilshan (23) through their 57-run opening stand.

Dilshan began aggressively but edged a catch to Indian captain and wicket-keeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni off Ishant Sharma in the ninth over.

Jayasuriya roared back to form, punishing the Indian bowlers. His 79-ball innings included 14 fours.

Sri Lanka suffered some anxious moments when Mahela Jayawardene and Sangakarra went in quick succession but Jayasuriya kept the scoreboard ticking. The left-hander missed a well-deserved century as he departed in the 30th over, trapped leg before by Nehra.

It was then Kandamby’s turn to take on the Indian attack.

He was well supported by Chamara Kapugedera and the two added 83 in 92 balls before the latter was run out in the 47th over.