LPL 2024 match reports: Marvels thrash Sixers in dramatic super over finish, Strikers defeat Kings in low-scoring match — Image via LPL

LPL 2024 match reports for match 16th and 17th.

LPL 2024 Match 16 Report

In a thrilling encounter at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, the Galle Marvels edged past the Dambulla Sixers in a dramatic Super Over finish in the Lanka Premier League. The match was a rollercoaster ride that ended with both teams tied at 148, leading to the intense one-over decider where Galle Marvels emerged victorious.

Galle Marvels, led by Niroshan Dickwella, posted 148/9 in their 20 overs. The innings saw contributions from Alex Hales (38 off 26) and Tim Seifert (23 off 29), but frequent wickets kept them from building significant partnerships. Mohammad Nabi and Dushan Hemantha were the pick of the bowlers for the Sixers, both securing two wickets each. Despite the middle-order collapse, a late surge by Kavindu Nadeeshan, who scored a quick 8 off 3 balls, helped Galle reach a competitive total.

In response, the Dambulla Sixers also managed to score 148 but lost seven wickets in the process. Reeza Hendricks played a stellar innings, scoring 72 off 57 balls, supported by Ibrahim Zadran’s brisk 30 off 18. However, Maheesh Theekshana’s brilliant bowling, which earned him the Player of the Match award, proved crucial. Theekshana took 3 wickets for 26 runs, dismantling the Sixers’ batting lineup at key moments. The Sixers faltered in the chase, losing wickets at regular intervals and could only tie the score, forcing a Super Over.

The Super Over saw the Dambulla Sixers batting first. Mohammad Nabi, who had a decent game until then, managed just 2 runs before being run out, while Reeza Hendricks was dismissed for a duck. The Sixers could only muster 6 runs in their Super Over, with Theekshana claiming two crucial wickets.

Galle Marvels needed 7 runs to win in their Super Over, and Alex Hales ensured there were no hiccups. Hales smashed 11 runs off just 3 balls, including a boundary and a six, sealing the victory for Galle Marvels with ease. Sahan Arachchige accompanied him, scoring a single, as Galle comfortably reached 12/0 to clinch the match.

Maheesh Theekshana’s all-round performance, was highlighted by his key wickets in both the main innings and the Super Over. His strategic bowling and composure under pressure were pivotal in securing the win for Galle Marvels.

This victory not only added crucial points to Galle Marvels’ campaign in the Lanka Premier League but also provided fans with a match to remember, showcasing the thrilling nature of T20 cricket.

LPL 2024 Match 17 Report

In a dominant display, the Colombo Strikers triumphed over the Jaffna Kings by nine wickets in the 17th match of the Lanka Premier League at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium. This comprehensive victory was anchored by a stellar performance from Shadab Khan, who was instrumental in restricting the Jaffna Kings to a modest total.

Batting first, the Jaffna Kings struggled to find momentum, ultimately posting a paltry 109/9 in their allotted 20 overs. The top order crumbled under pressure with Pathum Nissanka (3), Rilee Rossouw (0), and Kusal Mendis (17) falling early. Captain Charith Asalanka managed 13 runs, but his dismissal left Jaffna reeling at 44/4.

Shadab Khan wreaked havoc with his leg-spin, claiming four crucial wickets for just 10 runs in his four overs. His scalps included key players like Avishka Fernando (11), Asalanka, and Fabian Allen (0), decimating the Jaffna batting lineup. Vijayakanth Viyaskanth’s resilient 25 not out and Eshan Malinga’s 15 provided some resistance, but the total remained insufficient.

In response, the Colombo Strikers chased down the target with ease, reaching 112/1 in just 9.5 overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz led the charge with a blistering 57 not out off 33 balls, featuring four boundaries and four sixes. He was ably supported by Muhammad Waseem, who scored an unbeaten 35 off 18 deliveries, showcasing an aggressive intent with three sixes and two fours. Angelo Perera contributed a quickfire 16 off 8 balls before falling to Pramod Madushan, the sole wicket-taker for Jaffna.

The Kings’ bowlers had a tough day, with all struggling to contain the free-flowing Colombo batsmen. Jason Behrendorff, Fabian Allen, and Vijayakanth Viyaskanth were expensive, each conceding runs at over nine per over. Pramod Madushan’s lone success with the ball was the only highlight in an otherwise disappointing bowling performance.

Shadab Khan was deservedly named Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling figures of 4/10, a performance that effectively dismantled the Jaffna Kings and set up a straightforward chase for his team. His impact on the game was further highlighted by his Cricinfo MVP rating of 94.7 points.

This victory bolsters the Colombo Strikers’ position in the league standings, demonstrating their prowess with both bat and ball. Conversely, the Jaffna Kings will need to regroup and address their batting vulnerabilities if they hope to make a comeback in the tournament.