Sri Lanka A vs New Zealand A - 1st Unofficial Test, April 16, 2026
The match between Sri Lanka A and New Zealand A ended in a draw at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium, Hambantota. Notable performances included centuries from Sonal Dinusha of Sri Lanka A and Curtis Heaphy and Tim Robinson from New Zealand A. Tim Pringle had an impressive bowling performance for New Zealand A with six wickets across both innings.
Match Highlights
- Result: Match drawn
- Venue: Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium, Hambantota
- Date: April 16, 2026
- Toss Winner: Sri Lanka A, chose to bat first.
Key Performances:
Sri Lanka A Batting:
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First Innings:
- Sonal Dinusha scored a remarkable century (108 runs off 148 balls) to lead the batting effort.
- Lahiru Udara contributed a solid half-century with 61 runs.
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Second Innings:
- Nuwanidu Fernando remained unbeaten with a half-century, scoring 50 runs off 77 balls.
New Zealand A Batting:
- Curtis Heaphy was the standout performer with an outstanding 162 runs off 370 balls.
- Tim Robinson also shone with a commanding 130 runs off 229 balls.
- Fraser Sheat added quick runs towards the end with an unbeaten 61 off just 60 balls.
Bowling Highlights:
- Tim Pringle was the pick of the bowlers for New Zealand A, taking 3 wickets in the first innings and another 3 in the second innings.
- Ramesh Mendis from Sri Lanka A had a notable performance in the New Zealand A innings with two crucial wickets.
Narrative Summary:
Sri Lanka A won the toss and opted to bat first, setting up a total of 381 runs. Their innings was highlighted by Sonal Dinusha's brilliant century, supported by a half-century from Lahiru Udara. In response, New Zealand A amassed a total of 479 runs thanks to significant contributions from Curtis Heaphy and Tim Robinson, both registering centuries. The match saw competitive bowling performances, particularly from Tim Pringle who claimed key wickets to keep New Zealand A in contention.
In their second innings, Sri Lanka A managed to reach 168/4 before the match concluded as a draw. Nuwanidu Fernando anchored the innings with an unbeaten half-century. The match showcased balanced performances from both sides, resulting in an engaging contest that ultimately ended without a victor.
