Right then! That brings an end to our coverage of this game between Jaffna Kings and Colombo Strikers. Colombo Strikers have won a comprehensive game and keep themselves alive in the race. The next match of the Lanka Premier League is between Kandy Flacons vs Dambulla Sixers which starts at 3 pm IST (9.30 am GMT) on 15th of July 2024, but you can join us early for the pre-match excitement. Till then, have a good night.

The victorious skipper of Colombo Strikers, Thisara Perera is up for a chat and he says he is happy with the performance of the side. Adds that as a bowling unit, they did a good job and won the game in the first half of the game. Mentions that they are looking to minimize the boundary-hitting deliveries and restrict the opponents to below 150. Closes by saying that they'll be picking a side based on what the situation offers as they have a strong bench.

Charith Asalanka, captain of the Jaffna Kings, reflects on the match, expressing disappointment in their performance across all departments. He acknowledges that the team could have batted better, especially given the typically spinning track, which required adjustments. Despite the loss, Asalanka remains optimistic, noting that the team is currently positioned second and hopes to finish in that spot.

Shadab Khan, IS THE PLAYER OF THE MATCH FOR HIS BRILLIANT SPELL OF 4 FOR 10. He is up for a quick chat and says that he felt that the hattrick shout was out and technology faltered there. Adds that T20 cricket is known for power-hitting but as as bowler he needed to stick to his plan and it worked out well for him. Mentions that he has had a rough patch in the last three months but that's the beauty of cricket sometimes it works for you and sometimes it doesn't.

... TIME FOR THE PRESENTATIONS ...

Chasing 109 was never a daunting task for the Colombo Strikers. They got off to a flying start in the powerplay, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz leading the charge. Gurbaz remained unbeaten on 57*, anchoring the innings with composure. Mohammad Waseem provided solid support, contributing 35* runs as the Strikers cruised to victory. On the bowling front, Jaffna Kings found themselves at a disadvantage with insufficient runs on the board. Their bowlers struggled to make an impact, with Pramod Madushan being the lone wicket-taker. The Colombo Strikers' comprehensive victory keeps them in the playoff race, while Jaffna Kings will need to reassess to ensure a strong finish in the tournament.

Opting to bowl first, Colombo Strikers executed their plans to perfection, restricting Jaffna Kings to a mere 109/9 in their 20 overs. The Strikers' bowlers kept a tight grip on the game, consistently taking wickets and never allowing the Jaffna batters to settle. Binura Fernando set the tone with the new ball, claiming 2 crucial wickets. Shadab Khan was exceptional in the middle overs, delivering a stellar spell with figures of 4/10 from his four overs. Jaffna Kings struggled with the bat, failing to build meaningful partnerships. Vijayakanth Viyaskanth emerged as the top scorer with a modest 25* lower down the order, highlighting the overall lackluster performance.

The Colombo Strikers triumph convincingly, winning by 9 wickets and keeping their playoff hopes alive with two more games to go. In contrast, Jaffna Kings, despite already securing a playoff spot, see their chances of finishing in the top two threatened by this defeat.

Time for a strategic break. Not much to build a strategy around for Jaffna Kings as they have been demolished in all aspects of the game by Colombo Strikers.