LPL 2024 opener: Galle Marvels clinch thrilling last-ball win over Jaffna Kings. © Twitter (@LPLT20)
The 2024 Lanka Premier League kicked off with an electrifying match on July 2nd. Galle Marvels clinched a nail-biting last-ball victory against Jaffna Kings at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The pulsating opener set a thrilling tone for the tournament, showcasing top-notch cricketing action.
Match Summary
Jaffna Kings 177/7 (20) | |
| Avishka Fernando 59 (48) | Zahoor Khan 3/34 (4) |
| Pathum Nissanka 51 (33) | Isuru Udana 2/60 (4) |
| Charith Asalanka (c) 33 (15) | Dwaine Pretorius 2/23 (4) |
Galle Marvels 179/5 (20) | |
| Alex Hales 65 (47) | Fabian Allen 2/33 (4) |
| Niroshan Dickwella (c) 47 (27) | Asitha Fernando 2/40 (4) |
| Janith Liyanage 25 (13) | Dhananjaya de Silva 1/16 (4) |
Toss: Jaffna Kings won the toss and decided to bat.
Stadium: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
Result: Galle Marvels won by five wickets
Man of the Match: Alex Hales – 65 (47)
Jaffna Kings’ Strong Batting Display
Choosing to bat first, Jaffna Kings faced an early blow with the dismissal of Kusal Mendis. However, the team quickly regained momentum thanks to a crucial 81-run partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando. Nissanka scored a fluent 59 off 33 balls, while Fernando contributed a steady 51 off 48 deliveries, capitalizing on fielding lapses to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Despite losing wickets at regular intervals during the middle overs, the Kings were propelled by a late surge from skipper Charith Asalanka (33 off 15) and Dhananjaya de Silva (18 off 9). Their aggressive knocks helped Jaffna post a competitive total of 177/7. Zahoor Khan emerged as the standout bowler for Galle Marvels, claiming three crucial wickets for just 34 runs.
Galle Marvel’s Thrilling Chase
In reply, Galle Marvels had a shaky start with the early dismissal of explosive opener Niroshan Dickwella. However, Alex Hales anchored the chase with a composed 65 off 47 balls, playing a pivotal role in keeping his team in the hunt. He was ably supported by Dwaine Pretorius, who chipped in with a quick 23.
The match reached a crescendo in the final, with Galle needing 12 runs off six balls. Skipper Dasun Shanaka showcased his big-hitting prowess, smashing a six and a four off the first two deliveries, reducing the equation to 2 runs off the final ball. Young wicket-keeper batsman Chandimal Wellalage held his nerve to strike a crucial boundary through the covers, sealing a memorable victory for Galle Marvels.
Key Performances
- Avishka Fernando (Jaffna Kings): Anchored the innings with a solid 59 off 48 balls.
- Pathum Nissanka (Jaffna Kings): Played a fluent knock of 51 off 33 balls.
- Alex Hales (Galle Marvels): Steadied the chase with a match-winning 65 off 47 balls.
- Dasun Shanaka (Galle Marvels): Displayed late-game heroics with a six and a four in the final over.
- Zahoor Khan (Galle Marvels): Leading wicket-taker with figures of 3/34.
Drama in the Final Over
Twelve runs were needed in the last over, and the pressure was palpable. Pramod Madushan bowled the last six balls, but Dasun Shanaka’s aggressive batting quickly turned the game in Galle’s favor. His crucial boundaries off the first two deliveries set up a thrilling finish, culminating in Wellalage’s decisive boundary that sent the Galle dugout into jubilation.
Looking Ahead
This thrilling victory gives Galle Marvels a significant early boost in their LPL 2024 campaign. Meanwhile, Jaffna Kings must address their middle-order vulnerabilities as they prepare for their next match. The high-octane opening game has set the stage for an exciting tournament filled with drama and nail-biting finishes.
