In a thrilling encounter at R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Kandy Falcons secured a dominant 54-run victory over Dambulla Sixers in their crucial LPL match. This win bolsters Kandy Falcons’ chances of qualifying for the playoffs, pending the outcome of today’s game between Dambulla and Colombo.
Kandy Falcons set a formidable target of 222 for 4, powered by an explosive start from opener Andre Fletcher, who scored 60 off 34 balls, including a four and 7 sixes. Kamindu Mendis continued the onslaught with a rapid 51 off 24 balls, supported by experienced Angelo Mathews, who smashed 44 off 23 balls with 5 sixes, including four consecutive sixes in the final over bowled by Chamindu Wickrmasinghe. Mathews and Mendis put together an unbroken 95-run partnership, propelling Kandy Falcons past the 200-run mark.
Dambulla Sixers’ leg-spinner Dushan Hementha was the standout bowler with economical figures of 3 for 14 in his four overs. However, the chase of 223 runs proved too steep for Dambulla Sixers. Despite a valiant effort by Kusal Janith Perera, who scored 74 off 40 balls with 5 fours and 5 sixes, Dambulla struggled at 47 for 3 wickets during the power play.
Kandy Falcons’ bowlers Dasun Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga delivered match-winning spells. Shanaka took 3 for 29, while Hasaranga, named Man of the Match, claimed 4 for 35 and contributed a quick 25 runs with the bat, effectively stifling Dambulla’s innings.
Chief Scores:
- Kandy Falcons: 222 for 4 in 20 overs (Andre Fletcher 60, Kamindu Mendis 51*, Angelo Mathews 44*, Dushan Hementha 3/14)
- Dambulla Sixers: 168 for 9 in 20 overs (Kusal Janith Perera 74, Dasun Shanaka 3/29, Wanindu Hasaranga 4/35)
This emphatic win keeps Kandy Falcons in contention for the playoffs, showcasing their potential as formidable contenders in the LPL.
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