Hridoys cameo and Shakibs economical spell power Jaffna to dominant LPL win

Jaffna Kings cruised to a commanding 93-run victory over Kandy Royals in the Lanka Premier League, with Bangladesh stars Towhid Hridoy and Shakib Al Hasan making valuable contributions in an all-round team performance.

After winning the toss at Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Jaffna Kings opted to bat first. Openers Kamil Mishara (78) and Avishka Fernando (66) laid a solid foundation with a century stand before Towhid Hridoy carried the momentum at No. 3. The Bangladesh batter played a brisk cameo of 35 off just 21 balls at a strike rate of 166.67, smashing two fours and a towering six. Riding on Hridoy’s quickfire knock, Jaffna posted an imposing 199 for 4 in their allotted 20 overs.

Chasing a daunting target of 200, Kandy Royals struggled against Jaffna’s disciplined bowling attack. Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan kept things tight, conceding only 18 runs and claiming one wicket in his three-over spell. Mohammad Siraj (3/18) and Dunith Wellalage (3/21) also starred with the ball as the combined pace and spin attack bundled Kandy out for just 106 in 18.2 overs.

For Kandy Royals, Lahiru Udara offered the only significant resistance with a 41-ball 54. Afghanistan pacer Shaheen Afridi, batting down the order, was the next-highest scorer with 22 runs.

The emphatic 93-run victory strengthened Jaffna Kings’ position in the points table. Opener Kamil Mishara was named Player of the Match for his superb 78 off 53 balls.