Colombo Strikers began their Lanka Premier League 2024 campaign with a stunning 51-run triumph over Kandy Falcons at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan led the charge, turning the match with his first-ever hat-trick at the top level, only the second hat-trick in the history of the Lanka Premier League.
Chasing a challenging target of 199, the Falcons were bowled out for 147 in just 15.5 overs. Despite a promising start from Dinesh Chandimal (38 off 26) and Andre Fletcher (24 off 12), the Falcons lost momentum after losing two quick wickets during the powerplay, with Fletcher and Mohammad Haris (4 off 3) returning to the dugout early.
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The match swung dramatically in favor of Colombo Strikers, thanks to a brilliant bowling performance by Shadab Khan (4/22) and Sri Lankan off-spinner Dunith Wellalage (4/20). The duo spun a web around the Falcons’ middle and lower order, causing a sensational collapse. The last six Kandy wickets fell for just seven runs in 12 balls, sealing the victory for Colombo Strikers and earning them two vital points.
Earlier, Colombo Strikers, put in to bat first by Falcons’ skipper Hasaranga, posted a formidable total of 198 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Sadeera Samarawickrama top-scored with 48, while Hasaranga claimed 2/30 with the ball.
Brief Scores: Colombo Strikers: 198/7 in 20 overs (Sadeera Samarawickrama – 48, Hasaranga – 2/30)
Kandy Falcons: 147/10 in 15.5 overs (Dinesh Chandimal – 38, Dunith Wellalage – 4/20)
Colombo Strikers won by 51 runs.
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