In a captivating cricket final held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo today (20) B-Love Kandy emerged victorious against Dambulla Aura.
Vanindu Hasaranga, who was injured in the match held on the previous day (19), remained on the bench during the final. Meanwhile, cricket legend Angelo Mathews took on the role of officiating the final, adding to the excitement of the event.
Led by Kusal Mendis, the Dambulla team showcased their prowess as a well-rounded unit and entered the match with high determination. They were the favorites to secure the coveted 2023 trophy.
Dambulla Aura won the toss and chose to bat, setting a target of 148 runs for B-Love Kandy. Despite losing only 4 wickets in the 20 overs, Dambulla Aura was restricted to 147 runs by the B-Love Kandy bowlers. Chaturanga de Silva, stepping in for Vanindu, made significant contributions by taking two wickets for under 25 runs.
In response, B-Love Kandy’s opening batsmen, Mohammad Haris and Kamidu Mendis, formed a strong partnership of 49 runs. Haris displayed aggressive batting and scored 26 runs off 23 balls, including 3 fours and a six. The experienced Dinesh Chandimal, a former captain of the Sri Lankan cricket team, joined the field and exhibited a cautious playing style while building a partnership with Kamindu Mendis.
Kamindu Mendis showcased elegant batting, contributing 44 runs off 37 balls with a six and 3 fours. Chandimal’s dismissal due to clever fielding, especially Pramod Madhushan’s crucial catch, brought a turning point in the game. Kusal Janith Perera’s exceptional catch further shifted momentum in favor of the Dambulla Aura team.
With 16 runs required from the last 11 balls and 5 wickets remaining, Angelo Mathews, B-Love Kandy’s captain, displayed his experienced and composed playing style. His unbeaten 25 off 21 balls guided the team to victory with just one ball remaining.
Angelo Mathews was named the Man of the Match for his crucial contribution to the win. Vanindu Hasaranga was deservedly awarded the title of Man of the Series for his standout performances throughout the tournament.
