* Strikers’ Shadab Khan’s claims stunning hat-trick when it mattered
* LPL 2024 (Game 3 – KF vs CS)
In a remarkable display of cricket, the Colombo Strikers handed a resounding 51-run defeat to the defending champions, Kandy Falcons, in Pallekele. The Strikers set a challenging target, posting 198 for 7 in their 20 overs, with notable contributions from Sadeera Samarawickrama (48), Thisara Perera (38), and Muhammad Waseem (32). Despite a strong start by the Falcons, the Strikers’ bowlers orchestrated a dramatic collapse in the latter half of the match.
The Falcons began their chase with determination, fueled by a fiery opening partnership between Andre Fletcher and Dinesh Chandimal. Chandimal’s aggressive 38 and a valuable partnership between Wanindu Hasaranga (25) and Angelo Mathews (25) kept them in contention. However, the tide turned dramatically in the 14th over when Shadab Khan, who had earlier contributed 20 runs, took a sensational hat-trick, effectively sealing the game for the Strikers. Dunith Wellalage followed up with an equally impressive performance, taking 4 for 20, ensuring the Falcons were bowled out for 147 in 15.5 overs.
Shadab Khan’s hat-trick was the pivotal moment, dismantling the Falcons’ middle order and halting their momentum. Wellalage, complementing Khan’s efforts, removed key batsmen, leaving the Falcons with no chance of recovery. Binura Fernando and Glenn Phillips also contributed to the collapse, each picking up crucial wickets. The Strikers’ bowlers collectively took the last six wickets for just seven runs, showcasing a dominant bowling performance.
Despite their initial success in the Powerplay, the Kandy Falcons struggled to maintain their momentum against the Strikers’ spin attack. The defending champions’ decision to make three changes to their lineup and stick to their chasing strategy backfired, resulting in their first defeat of the season. Shadab Khan was rightfully awarded the Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution with both bat and ball. This victory sends a strong message from the Colombo Strikers, highlighting their formidable form and readiness to challenge any opposition in the tournament.
Chief Scores :
Colombo Strikers – 198 for 7 in 20 overs (Sadeera Samarawickrama 48, Thisara Perera 38, Muhammad Waseem 32, Wanindu Hasaranga 2 for 30, Kasun Rajitha 2 for 56, Salman Ali Agha 1 for 10)
Kandy Falcons – 147 for 10 in 15.5 overs (Dinesh Chandimal 38, Wanindu Hasaranga 25, Angelo Mathews 25, Dunith Wellalage 4 for 20, Shadab Khan 4 for 22, Binura Fernando 1 for 26)
