MELBOURNE: Australia A were left with a mountain to climb at the end of Day 2 in the second four-day match against Sri Lanka A, after the visitors piled on a commanding 485 for 6 declared in their first innings at Marrara Cricket Ground.
Sri Lanka A showcased exceptional composure and depth in their batting, led by sparkling centuries from openers Pavan Rathnayake (122) and Nuwanidu Fernando (102). The duo set a solid foundation, with further contributions from Kamil Mishara (81) and Sonal Dinusha (88) helping the visitors reach a mammoth total after 157 overs.
Australia A toiled hard in the field under testing conditions. Fast bowler Zanden Jeh was the pick of the bowlers, returning with figures of 3 for 132 from a marathon spell of 43 overs. Despite regular efforts from the bowling unit, breakthroughs were hard to come by as Sri Lanka A built partnerships with patience and precision.
In response, Australia A began their innings solidly and reached 76 for 1 at stumps on Day 2. Opener Jake Weatherald remained unbeaten on 45, while Kurtis Patterson provided steady support with 19 not out. The only wicket to fall was that of the other opener, claimed by spinner Nishan Peiris, who ended the day with 1 for 18 from his 6 overs.
Having chosen to bowl first after winning the toss, Australia A now find themselves under pressure to match the Sri Lankan batting effort and avoid a follow-on. The hosts will look to their experienced middle order on Day 3 to build a resilient reply and stay in the contest.
The match resumes tomorrow with Australia A trailing by 409 runs and nine wickets in hand.
