Match 5: Colombo Kaps vs Kandy Royals
Colombo Kaps
Kandy Royals
Colombo Kaps Edge Kandy Royals by Six Wickets in Thrilling SSC Contest
Colombo Kaps pulled off a composed chase to defeat Kandy Royals by six wickets in the fifth match of the Lanka Premier League 2026 at the SSC Grounds, Colombo.
After being asked to bat first, Kandy Royals posted a competitive 179 all out in their 20 overs, thanks to a series of valuable contributions from the middle order.
Lahiru Udara led the innings with a fluent 53 off 36 balls, striking eight fours and a six to provide Kandy with early momentum. Captain Angelo Mathews anchored the middle overs with a well-crafted 45 from 41 deliveries, while Moeen Ali added an important 41 off just 17 balls, smashing four boundaries and four sixes to give the innings a late boost.
Colombo’s bowlers ensured the Royals never got away. Hasan Mahmud was the pick of the attack with 3 for 31, while James Neesham claimed 2 for 42. Binura Fernando also made a key contribution with the new ball, finishing with 2 for 45.
In reply, Colombo Kaps endured an early setback but recovered through a match-winning partnership between Janith Liyanage and James Neesham.
After losing four wickets for just 67 runs, Janith Liyanage steadied the innings with an unbeaten 53 from 32 deliveries, striking six boundaries and a six. He was brilliantly supported by James Neesham, who remained unbeaten on 48 off 36 balls, including five fours and two sixes. The pair guided Colombo home with confidence, taking the team to 182 for 4 in 19.4 overs and sealing victory with two balls remaining.
Earlier in the chase, Kamindu Mendis contributed a useful 26, while Ben McDermott chipped in with 22 to keep Colombo within touching distance before the finishing partnership took control.
For Kandy Royals, Wanindu Hasaranga was the standout bowler, claiming 2 for 29, while Nuwan Thushara and Angelo Mathews picked up a wicket each. Despite their efforts, they were unable to break the decisive unbeaten stand between Liyanage and Neesham.
A calm finish under pressure from Janith Liyanage and James Neesham, combined with disciplined bowling led by Hasan Mahmud, helped Colombo Kaps secure a hard-fought six-wicket victory over Kandy Royals at the SSC Grounds, Colombo.
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