SOLID JOHNSON KEEPS WEST INDIES AFLOAT ON RAIN-HIT DAY

Jordan Johnson struck a vital half-century to pull West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 out of trouble on the rain-affected third day of the opening Youth “Test” against Sri Lanka Under-19 on Thursday.

With West Indies on 50-3 after resuming their first innings on 27-1, Johnson made a stylish unbeaten 54, to steer the visitors to 119 without further loss at the close at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.

Only 24.5 overs were possible due to rain and the left-hander, already with a century in the second Youth One-Day International last week, faced 67 balls and struck five fours and a six.

More significantly, he inspired a 69-run, unbroken fourth wicket stand with fellow Jamaican Steve Wedderburn who struck an unbeaten 28 from 54 balls, with two fours and a six.

West Indies were in trouble at the start of the day as Joshua Dorne (6) failed to add to his overnight score and opener Stephen Pascal added six to his overnight five, before he departed. Both were removed by left-arm spinner Vishwa Lahiru who was Sri Lanka best bowler with 2-22.

West Indies trail by 313 runs heading into Friday’s final day. Play will start at 9:45am local time (12:15am Eastern Caribbean/11:15am Jamaica).

Sri Lanka made 432-8 declared thanks to Dinura Kalupahana’s 150 not out, and half-centuries from Pulindu Perera (71) and Malsha Tharupathi (65). (Windiescricket)