The inaugural Lanka T10 Super League commenced with a bang as Jaffna Titans secured an emphatic 8-wicket victory over Hambantota Bangla Tigers at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Central to the Titans’ triumph was Mohammad Amir, whose fiery opening delivery set the tone for the match.
Amir struck on the very first ball of the tournament, trapping Kusal Perera lbw to give the Jaffna Titans a dream start. His precise line and length immediately put the Bangla Tigers on the back foot, setting the stage for a commanding performance by the Titans’ bowling attack.
Despite a fighting effort from Hambantota skipper Dasun Shanaka, who smashed a scintillating 51 off just 17 balls with five sixes and four fours, the rest of the batting order crumbled. Shanaka’s dismissal triggered a collapse, with the Tigers stumbling from 77/1 to finish at 106/8 in their 10 overs. Young spinner Treveen Mathew was the standout bowler, claiming 4/10 in his two overs, while Amir, Pramod Madushan, and Dwaine Pretorius chipped in with crucial wickets.
In response, the Titans overcame the early loss of Nuwanidu Fernando (0) thanks to an explosive knock from England’s Tom Kohler-Cadmore. His unbeaten 57 off just 21 deliveries, supported by Tom Abell’s steady 33* off 19 balls, ensured a smooth chase, with the Titans wrapping up the win in just 8.1 overs.
Amir’s early breakthrough and disciplined bowling laid the foundation for the Titans’ dominance, highlighting his continuing impact as a premier fast bowler in T10 cricket. The Jaffna Titans will be looking to build on this strong start as the tournament progresses.
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