Bhanuka Rajapaksa's 61 Fires Jaffna Kings to Victory
Jaffna Kings have won by 5 wickets. Dambulla Sixers batted first and posted 130/10 in 19.3 overs. Jaffna Kings chased down 131 in just 19 overs.
Dambulla Sixers struggled through their innings, losing wickets at regular intervals. Pavan Rathnayake top-scored with 27 off 16 balls (SR 169), but lacked support from the other end. The powerplay yielded 33 runs — early wickets put them under pressure from the start.
In the chase, Bhanuka Rajapaksa anchored the innings with 61 off 37 balls. It was a measured knock that kept Jaffna Kings on track despite losing wickets around him.
With the ball, Lizaad Williams delivered figures of 3/14 in 2.3 overs (Econ 6.1). Crucial breakthroughs at key moments that shifted the momentum.
JK lead the series 5-0. The pressure is firmly on the chasing side now.
The Turning Point
Over 15 of the first innings was the inflection point — 18 runs came off it, shifting the momentum and setting the stage for a total that ultimately proved too much.
Key Performers
61* off 37 balls (SR 165), 4 fours, 4 sixes
3/14 in 2.3 overs (Econ: 5.60)
27 off 16 balls (SR 169), 5 fours, 0 sixes
Verdict
Jaffna Kings showed composure when it mattered most and deserve this victory. Dambulla Sixers will rue missed opportunities — a 5 wickets deficit could have been avoided with sharper execution in the key moments. JK lead the series 5-0. The pressure is firmly on the chasing side now.