Tim Seifert scored an unbeaten 82, while all-rounder Isuru Udana took 3 for 30 as Galle Marvels recorded a six-wicket win with 17 balls to spare against Kandy Falcons in their LPL match at Dambulla International Stadium. Seifert, who had scored a century in an earlier game, continued his fine form.
Galle Marvels, led by Niroshan Dickwella, chased a target of 176. They made a quick start, achieving the highest Powerplay score ever in LPL history, 89 for 1 in 6 overs. This paved the way for them to reach the target in 17.1 overs with six wickets in hand. Dickwella was out in the first over, scoring 12 with three fours. Alex Hales and Seifert then added a remarkable 59-run second-wicket stand. Hales scored 38 off 19 balls with four fours and three sixes, while Seifert remained unbeaten with 82 off 49 balls, including 11 fours and two sixes. The pair took 27 runs off Wanindu Hasaranga’s first over, the fifth of the innings. Udana, with his 3 for 30, used his experience in the Powerplay and was named Man of the Match.
Earlier, Galle Marvels skipper Niroshan Dickwella won the toss and decided to bowl, a decision that proved advantageous as Kandy Falcons struggled to 36 for 4 wickets after the power play. Opener Andre Fletcher scored a fighting 50 off 36 balls with four fours and two sixes before being dismissed by Maheesh Theekshana in the 12th over. Experienced Angelo Mathews and skipper Wanindu Hasaranga then repaired the innings after they were 77 for 5. The pair added a 58-run sixth-wicket stand, with Mathews scoring 25 off 27 balls before being caught and bowled by Zahoor Khan in the 17th over. Hasaranga played an anchor role, scoring 65 off 32 balls with seven fours and two sixes, leading the team to 175 for 7 in 20 overs.
Isuru Udana was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 for 30, while paceman Zahoor Khan supported well with 2 for 29.
Chief scores
Kandy Falcons 175 for 5 wickets in 20 overs Andre Fletcher 50,Kamindu Mendis 10,Angelo Mathews 25, Wanindu Hasaranga 65*, Dwaine Pretorius 1/40, Isuru Udana 3/30,Zahoor Khan 2/29,Maheesh Theekshana 1/32
Galle Marvels 176 for 4 wickets in 17.1 overs Niroshan Dickwella 12,Alex Hales 38,Tim Seifert 82*, Bhanuka Rajapaksa 16, Janith Liyanage 11, Shoriful Islam 2 for 32, Wanindu Hasaranga 1/36,Lakshan Sandakan 1/46
(dailynews)
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