A superb innings of 174 by Nottinghamshire’s Freddie McCann put England Men U19s on course for a stirring 30-run victory against Sri Lanka at Hove to level the three-match ODI series at 1-1.
After a measured start, the left-handed McCann cut loose in the second half of his innings to present Sri Lanka with a formidable total.
The England innings was based around a partnership of 127 in 24 overs between McCann and Noah Thain in which the Sri Lankan fielders were driven to distraction.
McCann, who had reached his century from 97 balls, with 15 fours, accelerated away in the latter stages of his knock to record a final score of 174 off 139 - a joint-record for an England men's U19 batter in an ODI.
“I was very proud of that innings, in only my second official game for the Under 19s," said McCann.
"I’m really happy we managed to put a win on the board to level the series, and hopefully we can win it here on Wednesday.
“Putting a big score on the board for the team was special for me. We kept wickets in hand, which is what we always talk about."
Later, when Pulindu Perera and Gayana Weerasjinghe put Sri Lanka well ahead of the asking rate with a second wicket partnership worth 110 in just 14 overs, it was McCann who ended the alliance with a diving outfield catch to dismiss Weerasinghe (57) off the impressive bowling of county stablemate Farhan Ahmed.
The visitors were ultimately unable to find another batter capable of dominating the England bowlers. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 330 in 49.2 overs, with Luc Benkenstein, son of South Africa’s Dale, taking four wickets.
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Notts Outlaws' next home Vitality Blast clash sees them entertain Leicestershire Foxes on Friday 5 July.