NEWTOWN Cricket Club’s Recreation Ground hosted a Sri Lankan XI for a T25 friendly in midweek.

The touring side ensured a party atmosphere throughout a well contested game with around 60 Sri Lankan fans cheering on their compatriots, complete with bongo drums.

Newtown opened the batting with Ryan Davies (38) and Matthew Knight (35) top scoring to guide their side to 164-6 to defend.

The Sri Lankan side sealed victory in the 25th over of their reply to complete an eight wicket win.

Town skipper Sam Cooke was delighted with the event.

“It was a good game played in the right spirit,” said Cooke. “They enjoyed themselves and were dancing, singing and playing their bongo drums.”

Newtown return to Henshalls Shropshire Premier League action on Saturday with Ludlow the visitors to the Recreation Ground.