The Japan National Academy (Men's U19) squad completed their tour of Sri Lanka earlier this month, returning home with a very creditable three wins and two losses across the five-match tour.
Highlights from the tour included:
- A commanding 83* from Monty Hara-Hinze in the opening fixture against Colombo South which led his team to a six-wicket win.
- 80 from Hugo Tani-Kelly alongside 50 from 31 balls from Gabby Hara-Hinze in the 2nd match against Colombo South.
- An allround display of 31 from 11 balls and 3 wickets from Adil Khan in the 28-run win over Colombo South.
- 80 and 3 wickets from Hugo Tani-Kelly in the final match against WPCA, and another 55 from Monty Hara-Hinze.
- Will Markwell taking wickets bowling with both his left arm and right arm.
This tour marked the first outing for the new generation of under 19 players who will look to compete for a place at the next Under 19 World Cup when the qualifiers take place in 2027, details of that tournament are still to be confirmed.
The JCA would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Grand Auto Japan, without whose sponsorship the tour may never have happened, and all those at Sri Lanka Cricket who helped facilitate the matches.
