Lions lose in Sri Lanka (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Lions lose in Sri Lanka

5:38pm Tuesday 31st January 2012 in Southampton

Danny Briggs could not stop England Lions losing their latest 50-over game in Sri Lanka.

Jos Buttler's century was in vain as England slipped to a six-wicket defeat against Sri Lanka A in Kurunegala.

Buttler scored 119 in 130 balls, his second ton in three games, as the Lions posted 258 for nine in their 50 overs after winning the toss.

James Vince did not play, while Jonny Bairstow made 31.

Sri Lanka slipped to 22 for two in reply, but thereafter were seldom troubled as they reached their target with 15 balls to spare, Dimuth Karunaratne top scoring with 94.

Samit Patel was the pick of the Lions bowlers with one for 49 off his 10 overs, while Briggs took one for 46 from his nine.

The tourists lead the five-match series 2-1.