Sri Lanka cruise to first victory despite fight from Dutch

Bowling had been a significant concern for Sri Lanka in their first three matches of the World Cup. Almost all their bowlers struggled against Australia and Pakistan, even as the batters gave their best, scoring over 300 runs in both matches. However, the Sri Lankan bowling unit finally found some rhythm on Saturday and guided their team to a five-wicket victory over Netherlands.

- Sharad Deep

Kasun Rajitha (4/50) and in-form left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka (4/49) helped the 1996 champions dismiss the Dutch for 262 after reducing the rivals to 91/6 early in the game. Well-crafted half-centuries by Sadeera Samarawickrama and Pathum Nissanka made things easier for Sri Lanka, who won with 10 balls to spare.

Sri Lanka lost opener Kusal Perera and skipper Kusal Mendis early in the chase, but Nissanka and Samarawickrama kept the scoreboard ticking along, putting together a 52-run partnership for the third wicket. Nissanka (54, 52 balls, 9x4) lost his concentration and edged a straightforward catch to skipper Scott Edwards but in-form Samarawickrama continued to strike the ball nicely around the green outfield of the Ekana Stadium.