LPL 2023: Jaffna Kings Crush Colombo Strikers by 21 Runs in Tournament Opener

Jaffna Kings began their Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023 season in style with a commanding 21-run win against Colombo Strikers on Sunday, July 30th.

Putting to bat first, Jaffna Kings posted a mammoth total of 173 runs for the loss of five wickets. Towhid Hridoy’s brilliant half-century was instrumental in their innings, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz providing a quick-fire 21 off 11 balls. Priyamal Perera (22) and Dunith Wellalage (25) also made useful contributions to their total.

In reply, Colombo Strikers’ captain Niroshan Dickwella stood strong with an impressive 58 runs off 38 balls, but the rest of the batting lineup faltered, as they eventually bundled out for 152 runs in 19.4 overs. Nuwanidu Fernando (17), Ramesh Mendis (17), and Chamika Karunaratne (23) were some other top contributors for them.

Hardus Viljoen from Jaffna Kings delivered an exceptional performance, securing a three-wicket haul and spearheading the bowling attack. Vijayakanth Viyaskanth and Dilshan Madushaka played their part as well, each claiming two wickets each.