In a thrilling finale of the Lanka Premier League (LPL 2024 final), the Jaffna Kings emerged victorious against the Galle Marvels at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The match, held on July 21, 2024, was a testament to the power and prowess of the Jaffna Kings as they chased down a formidable target of 185 with ease, winning by nine wickets with 26 balls to spare.
The Galle Marvels, after being put in to bat first, posted a competitive total of 184/6 in their 20 overs. The innings was marked by a sensational knock from Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who blasted 82 runs off just 34 balls, including 8 fours and 6 sixes. His aggressive batting provided a much-needed impetus to the Galle innings, especially after early setbacks.
The Galle Marvels had a shaky start, losing both openers, Niroshan Dickwella and Alex Hales, cheaply to Jason Behrendorff. Dickwella managed only 5 runs, while Hales could muster 6 runs before falling to Behrendorff’s precision bowling. Tim Seifert and Janith Liyanage also couldn’t contribute significantly, leaving Galle at a precarious position of 24/3 in the 7th over.
Rajapaksa then took charge, unleashing a flurry of boundaries and sixes to steer Galle to a respectable total. He found some support from Sahan Arachchige, who scored a steady 16 runs, and Dwaine Pretorius, who remained unbeaten on 12. Asitha Fernando was the pick of the bowlers for Jaffna, claiming 3 crucial wickets for 35 runs.
In response, the Jaffna Kings’ chase got off to a dramatic start as Pathum Nissanka was dismissed for a golden duck by Dwaine Pretorius on the very first ball. However, this early dismissal did little to dent Jaffna’s confidence, thanks to a masterclass in batting from Rilee Rossouw and Kusal Mendis.
Rossouw was in sublime form, hammering an unbeaten 106 off just 53 balls. His innings was laced with 9 fours and 7 towering sixes, showcasing his power-hitting ability and impeccable timing. Mendis played the perfect foil to Rossouw, scoring an unbeaten 72 off 40 balls, with 8 fours and 2 sixes. Together, they stitched an unbroken 185-run partnership, taking the game away from Galle with a combination of finesse and aggression.
The Galle bowlers had no answer to the onslaught from Rossouw and Mendis. Isuru Udana, Maheesh Theekshana, and Janith Liyanage were taken to the cleaners as Jaffna cruised towards the target. The Kings reached the total in just 15.4 overs, underscoring their dominance throughout the tournament.
Rossouw’s remarkable innings earned him the Player of the Match award, capping off a memorable tournament for the South African star. With this victory, the Jaffna Kings not only lifted the LPL 2024 trophy but also cemented their status as one of the premier teams in the league.
This final was a fitting end to a highly competitive season, with both teams showcasing their talent and fighting spirit. However, it was the Jaffna Kings who stood tall, demonstrating that they had the mettle and firepower to clinch the championship in grand style. The electrifying atmosphere at the R. Premadasa Stadium, coupled with the high-octane performances, made the LPL 2024 final a night to remember for cricket fans worldwide.
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