Jesse Christensen’s 101 from 133 balls helped SA U19 to a 128-run victory over Sri Lanka in Match Two of the CSA Youth Triangular Series in Cape Town on Sunday.
This marked a consecutive bonus-point win for the home side who beat Zimbabwe in the opening match by 76-runs on Saturday.
Christensen and Raynard van Tonder (79 off 87 balls) were Sunday’s heroes with the bat, sharing a 141-run partnership for the third wicket after the loss of openers, Wandile Makwetu and Matthew Breetzke for 11 and five respectively. Captain, Wiaan Mulder scored a deft 44 off 36 deliveries, while Mitchell van Buuren added an unbeaten 23 runs to get their side to 283/6 at the end of their 50 overs.
Christensen was pleased with his performance and commemorated Van Tonder’s role in his performance.
‘I feel good, it’s good to see that the hard work pays off. I came in under pressure and had to build an innings with Raynard (van Tonder). I think we did well with our partnership to move the game forward, it was a good platform for the guys coming in after us to bat on.’
Sri Lanka’s Nipun Ransika and Jehan Daniel had the most success with the ball, taking 3-45 and 2-59 respectively after the visitors were asked to field.
Their batting reply was restricted to 155 in 40.5 overs thanks to impressive bowling by Jade de Klerk (3-28) and Mulder (3-42). Keenan Smith (2-32) provided good support while Akhona Mnyaka and debutant, Ruan de Swardt took one each to wrap up a solid bowling effort.
De Klerk was delighted to contribute to the team’s success. He credited the opening bowling pair of Mulder and Mnyaka for building the pressure up front and allowing the spinners to come in and cash in.
‘I think the openers bowled really well,’ he said.
‘Their spell was key to building pressure and the fielders backed them up. From my bowling, the first two overs didn’t go too well, but after that, I followed my processes and stuck to my basics really well to get the wickets we needed. I was really glad to be able to contribute.’
Sri Lanka take on Zimbabwe at the Wally Wilson Oval at Western Province Cricket Club on Monday. Both teams will look to get a win after their respective disappointments against the hosts.
PHOTO: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
