2 run victory to Nalanda
After a thrilling final over at Wolston Park on 18th November 2018, Nalanda emerged victorious in the 8th encounter of the Queensland Battle of the Maroons series. In summary, Ananda OBA lost by the slimmest of margins, only 2 runs, after a keenly contested 35 overs-a-side cricket match.
Nalanda OBA won the toss and elected to bat first in the allotted 35 overs. Nalanda accumulated a total of 195 runs for the loss of all wickets, with Desh Kongalage (91) and Sudath Jayaweera (27) being the biggest contributors. Desh retired after scoring 75 runs, as per the rules, and returned after the fall of the 9th wicket to extend his total contribution to 91 runs, which is the highest individual batting score in this series.
For Ananda OBA ,Vidu Jaagoda Arachchi was outstanding, taking 5 wickets for 41 runs in 7 overs, followed by Mithila Wanigatunge and Kanishka Cabral taking 2 wickets each while giving away 37 runs in 6 overs and 29 runs in 7 overs respectively.
In response, Ananda led by Rashan Senanayake amassed a score of 193 runs for the loss of all wickets. Batting honours belonged to Sudam Wanigatunge for his brave inning of 68 runs. Other notable contributions were by Vidu Jaagoda Arachchi and Rakith Senanayake scoring 40 runs and 35 runs respectively.
For Nalanda, top bowling performances were recorded by Madushanka Senanayake (7 overs 3/18), Amila Paththamperuma (7 overs 3/40) and Asiri Diyagama (4 overs 2/24).
Sudam (Ananda) was awarded man of the Match for his outstanding contributions with bat and ball. Desh Kongalage (Nalanda) was named both the best batsman and best fielder, while Vidu Jaagoda Arachchi (Ananda) was the worthy recipient of the best bowler award for his 5 wicket haul in this game.
Although we suffered a loss, we would like to commend Rashan and the team on their hard work, dedication and perseverance throughout the year. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Queensland Ananda OBA for organising and hosting the annual big match for 2018, as well as all those who attended and supported the event on the day.
The Nalandians extended their winning streak to 5 out of the 8 Queensland Battle of the Maroons matches, but the Anandians put up a great run chase, and lost by the narrowest of margins. It was an entertaining match to watch from start to finish, with a nail-biting end to the game. Please keep an eye out for future QLD Battle of the Maroons event details through Facebook and our website.