DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka (CMC) – Opener Pulindu Perera struck a half-century as Sri Lanka Under-19s made a measured start on the opening day of the first Youth “Test” against West Indies Under-19s here Tuesday.

Following a rain delay which resulted in only 38 overs at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, the hosts reached 163 for three at the close, Perera top-scoring with 71.

Captain Sineth Jayawardene chipped in with 34 while Ravishan Nethsara struck 31 as Sri Lanka Under-19s batted well in partnerships after winning the toss.

Once the weather cleared, Perera took the initiative in stitching together two successive half-century stands to keep the visitors starved of major success.

The 17-year-old, who belted 155 in the final Youth ODI against West Indies U-19s last week, again scored quickly, striking eight fours and two sixes in a 66-ball knock as he posted 64 for the first wicket with Jayawardene and 57 for the second wicket with Nethsara.

Jayawardene, another left-hander, scored at a run-a-ball with seven fours while Nethsara, in contrast, produced a patient innings lasting 81 balls and including three fours.

Once Perera fell, the right-handed Nethsara held the innings together and guided Sri Lanka U-19s safely to the close.