Kurunegela: NCC took box seat honours on the second day of the SLC Major League, cruising to the finals of the mega tournament by amassing 504 from an overnight 410 for 4. Skipper Sahan Arachchige added a further 16 to his previous day’s score of 151 off 246 balls, which included 9 boundaries and 2 sixes. Asel Sigera and Lahiru Kumara were instrumental in dismissing Kurunegela YCC for 182 in just 37.4 overs at the Weagedera Stadium.

According to Sri Lanka Cricket, Tamil Union C and AC claimed an innings and 126-run victory over Nugegoda SWC, finishing with a day to spare. Tharindu Rathnayake was the star bowler, claiming 5 for 68, contributing to a match haul of 7 wickets. Sandun Weerakkody, who top-scored with 128 off 88 balls, was unable to add to his overnight score, but his efforts helped Tamil Union post a formidable total of 395.

Moors SC also celebrated an innings and 15-run win against Kandy Customs CC at Police Park. Malsha Tharupathi and skipper Ramesh Mendis, who is part of Sri Lanka’s ODI team,
played a key role in the victory. Mendis had an all-round performance, claiming 4 for 72 and scoring 54 off 81 balls in a total of 331, which was highlighted by Janishka Perera’s 101.

NCC secured their spot in the finals with a commanding performance. In their second innings, they reached 45 for 2 at stumps. Asel Sigera and Lahiru Kumara’s bowling was pivotal in dismissing Kurunegela YCC for a modest total.

Meanwhile, BRC were at 218 for 8 wickets in response to CCC’s massive first innings score of 478. The standout performer for CCC was Anjala Bandara, who scored a remarkable 190 off 143 balls, which included 21 boundaries.

The ongoing tournament has showcased some impressive performances, with teams like NCC, Tamil Union, and Moors SC making significant strides towards the finals, each demonstrating superior skill and strategy in their respective matches.