Rahula College secured a thrilling 9-run victory over Dharmapala Vidyalaya in the 14th Battle of the Golden Lions limited-overs encounter via the DLS method at the P.Sara Oval.
Batting first, Dharmapala posted 186/8 in their 50 overs, with Praveen Ranhiru and Menusha Pabasara making 43 and 33 respectively. Ramiru Mandeepa also made an invaluable 24 runs in the latter part of the innings. Oshan Thenuka was the pick of the bowlers for Rahula with 3 for 23, while Minuga Lakvidu also chipped in with 1 for 20.
Chasing 187, Rahula College reached 180/8 in 46.2 overs when play was halted due to bad light. At that point, they were 9 runs ahead of the DLS par score, securing them the victory. Sasinu Battage led the chase with a crucial 67, while Aayu Kaviraj and skipper Sadew Gamage added 31 and 24 respectively to the score, bringing the victory within reach.. Despite a strong bowling effort from Ramiru Mandeepa and Nethmina Nirmal Dharmapala fell just short as Rahula edged past them in a tense finish.
With plenty more excitement to come this big match season, stay tuned to Sri Lanka’s No.1 Sports Channel, ThePapare, for all the live action!
