Qualifier 1: Jaffna Kings vs Galle Gallants

Jaffna Kings Storm into the LPL 2026 Final with 14-Run Victory Over Galle Gallants

Jaffna Kings booked their place in the Lanka Premier League 2026 Final with a thrilling 14-run victory over Galle Gallants in Qualifier 1 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.

Batting first, Jaffna Kings produced a sensational batting display to post a mammoth 242 for 2 from their 20 overs. Kamil Mishara stole the show with a breathtaking unbeaten 108 from just 55 deliveries, smashing ten fours and seven sixes in a masterclass of power hitting.

After the early dismissal of Avishka Fernando, Khawaja Nafay kept the momentum going with a superb 54 off 32 balls, before Towhid Hridoy unleashed an explosive finish, remaining unbeaten on 54 from only 21 deliveries, including five sixes. The unbroken partnership between Mishara and Hridoy powered Jaffna to one of the highest totals of the tournament.

Galle Gallants found little success with the ball. Akif Javed claimed the only wicket to fall to a bowler, while the rest of the attack struggled to contain Jaffna’s relentless scoring.

Faced with a daunting target of 243, Galle Gallants responded with an aggressive approach and pushed the Kings throughout the chase. Sam Harper got the innings off to a flying start with 44 from just 21 deliveries, while Charith Asalanka added a quick 27 to keep the required run rate within reach.

The middle order continued the fight as Chamika Karunaratne contributed 39, captain Dasun Shanaka scored 34, and Sachindu Colombage played an entertaining unbeaten 27 from just nine balls in the closing stages. Despite the late assault, the Gallants finished on 228 for 8, falling just 14 runs short of the target.

Jaffna Kings’ bowlers delivered key breakthroughs at crucial moments. Mohamed Shiraz led the attack with 3 for 32, while Lizaad Williams claimed 2 for 39. Dilshan Madushanka, Shakib Al Hasan, and Dunith Wellalage picked up a wicket each to ensure Galle’s chase never quite got ahead of the asking rate.

A record-setting batting performance led by Kamil Mishara, combined with timely breakthroughs from the bowling unit, helped Jaffna Kings secure a memorable 14-run victory over Galle Gallants in Qualifier 1 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. The victory sends the Kings directly into the LPL 2026 Final, while Galle Gallants will have another opportunity to reach the title clash through Qualifier 2.

📸 Match Gallery 19 PHOTOS

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