* Marvels’ Sahan Arachchige hits final delivery for a boundary to give his side the win
* LPL 2024 (Game 2 – JK vs GM)
By Marlon Dale Ferreira
In a dramatic conclusion, the Galle Marvels clinched a nail-biting victory against the Jaffna Kings, winning by 5 wickets in the last ball of the match. The Jaffna Kings set a challenging target, posting 177 for 7 in their 20 overs. This impressive total was anchored by half-centuries from Avishka Fernando (59) and Pathum Nissanka (51), with Charith Asalanka contributing a vital 33. Despite strong performances from their bowlers, including Zahoor Khan (3 for 34) and Dwaine Pretorius (2 for 23), the Kings were unable to defend their total.
The Marvels’ chase began with a scintillating opening partnership between Alex Hales and Niroshan Dickwella. Dickwella’s explosive 47 off 27 balls provided a solid start, while Hales’ steady 65 kept the chase on track. However, as wickets began to tumble after the openers’ dismissal, Galle faced increasing pressure. Janith Liyanage’s quickfire 25 from 13 balls and Sahan Arachchige’s clutch final-ball four, facing just his second delivery, ensured the Marvels reached 179 for 5 in 20 overs.
Throughout the chase, momentum swung back and forth. The Jaffna Kings’ bowlers, especially Fabian Allen (2 for 33) and Asitha Fernando (2 for 40), made crucial breakthroughs to keep their team in contention. Allen’s twin strikes, including the key wicket of Hales, almost tilted the game in Jaffna’s favor. Despite their valiant efforts, the Kings could not prevent the Marvels from inching closer to their target.
The match reached a thrilling climax in the final over, where Galle needed 4 runs off the last ball. Under immense pressure, Dwaine Pretorius and Sahan Arachchige delivered, with Arachchige finding the boundary to seal a historic chase for the Marvels. This victory marked Galle’s highest successful run chase in the history of the Lanka Premier League (LPL), showcasing their resilience and determination.
Chief Scores:-
Jaffna Kings – 177 for 7 in 20 overs (Avishka Fernando 59, Pathum Nissanka 51, Charith Asalanka 33, Zahoor Khan 3 for 34, Dwaine Pretorius 2 for 23, Isuru Udana 2 for 60)
Galle Marvels – 179 for 5 in 20 overs (Alex Hales 65, Niroshan Dickwella 47, Janith Liyanage 25, Fabian Allen 2 for 33, Asitha Fernando 2 for 40, Dhananjaya de Silva 1 for 16)
