/ 10 October 2006

Tharanga’s second ton helps Sri Lanka qualify

In-form opener Upul Tharanga’s second consecutive hundred guided Sri Lanka to a 144-run victory over Zimbabwe and a qualifiers’ slot in the main rounds of the Champions Trophy on Tuesday.

The 21-year-old left-hander hit 13 fours and a six in his 130-ball 110 as Sri Lanka, opting to bat, made 285-7 in the day-night game to notch up their second straight win in the four-team qualifiers.

Zimbabwe, who lost to defending champions West Indies in their opening match, were bowled out for 141 in 42.3 overs. Paceman Lasith Malinga was the chief wrecker with 3-25.

Sri Lanka, who beat Bangladesh in their opening encounter, will meet West Indies on Saturday in the match that will decide who tops the preliminary phase. — Reuters