The 13th Battle of the Golden Lions between Rahula College, Matara and Dharmapala College, Pannipitiya ended in a draw today (6th April) at Uyanwatte Cricket Stadium, Matara.
Dharmapala College, Pannipitya survived defeat by a whisker against Rahula College, Matara in their 13th two-day encounter at Matara.
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Batting first, Rahula College struggled to post a huge total on the board, being bowled out for 176 runs in their first innings. Wicket-keeper and batter Pawara Pabasara top-scored for the boys from Matara. At the same time, Nethmina Perera and Menusha Pabasara picked up 4 and 3 wickets for Dharmapala College, putting the hosts on the backfoot at the end of the first passage of play.
In reply, Rahula College showcased their quality with the ball, restricting the visiting batters to a mere 117 runs and giving them a 59-run lead in the first innings. Sadew Gamage and Oshan Thenuka were the standout bowlers for the hosts, picking up 3 wickets each.
The Rahula College batters walked out for their second innings with real intent. They declared their innings at 126 runs for the loss of 3 wickets after just 30 overs, setting their opponents a target of 186 runs.
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At the end of the day’s play, Dharmapala College were sitting at 140 for the loss of 9 wickets in their run chase. Rahula College off-spinner Risinu Geenuka picked up 4 crucial scalps turning the fortunes towards the hosts. However, despite their efforts, the game ultimately ended in a thrilling draw with Rahula College coming close to a victory but falling short.
Brief Scores :
Rahula College 176 (54.4) Pawara Pabasara 51, Sadew Gamage 25, Nethmina Perera 4/27, Menusha Pabasra 3/26 & 126/3d (30) Pasindu Shehan 35, Imeth Manamperi 32*, Chithun Baddage 2/45
Dharmapala College 117 (49.2) Nirmal Colombage 42, Oshan Thenuka 3/6, Sadew Gamage 3/28 & 140/9 (55) Chithun Baddage 24, Risinu Geenuka 4/29
Match Drawn
 at Uyanwatte Cricket Stadium, Matara.){kind=link}