Jaffna Kings seal emphatic victory over Dambulla Giants

COLOMBO: Jaffna Kings’ bowlers annihilated Dambulla Giants’ batting line-up in their Lanka Premier League fixture here on Monday, dismissing them for 69.

Batting first, Kings’ bowling attack trapped Giants batters completely. None of their batters were able to go deep and get the side into the winning position. Giants, in the end, bundled out for a paltry 69 in the 15th over. Tharindu Ratnayake scored 14 followed by the highest run-scorer of the side, Phil Salt with 23 runs.

For Kings, Chaturanga de Silva starred with four wickets for just 16 runs, Maheesh Theekshana, on the other hand, bagged three wickets. While, Ashen Bandara, Shoaib Malik and Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva each took a wicket.

Chasing 70, Kings too, started poorly, losing first wicket for just 14 runs as Upul Tharanga dismissed on just two.

Avishka Fernando and de Silva then partnered strongly to keep their side out of trouble. The pair added a valuable 39-runs partnership before de Silva dismissed after scoring 37; facing just 18 balls, including five boundaries and two sixes. He remained the top-scorer for his side.

Avishka, however, remained not-out on 22 and steered his side to the victory. He faced just 17 balls and hit two boundaries and a six.

For Giants, Imran Tahir took two wickets, while Josh Little struck out a batter.

Following this victory, the Kings have strengthened their top position, while Giants remained at second.

READ: Malik, Perera lead Jaffna Kings to victory in Lanka Premier League