Lahiru Udara produced a breathtaking century to guide Kandy Royals to their third victory of the Lanka Premier League 2026, as they defeated Galle Gallants in the 16th match of the tournament played today (29th July) at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
Having won the toss, Galle Gallants elected to bat first and posted an imposing 208 for 3 in their allotted 20 overs, thanks to explosive half-centuries from opener Sam Harper and middle-order batter Charith Asalanka.
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Harper gave the Gallants the perfect start with a blistering 72 off 38 deliveries, striking seven fours and three sixes. Asalanka then maintained the momentum with an equally destructive 70 off just 32 balls, smashing seven fours and four sixes. Left-arm wrist spinner Zahir Khan was the standout bowler for Kandy Royals, returning figures of 2 for 25.
In reply, Kandy Royals produced a superb batting display to chase down the target with six wickets in hand in the 19th over, spearheaded by a remarkable innings from Lahiru Udara.
Udara became the first centurion of LPL 2026 with a magnificent 132 off just 63 deliveries, an innings studded with 15 fours and seven sixes at a staggering strike rate of 209.52.
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For Galle Gallants, wrist spinner Sachindu Colombage continued his impressive form with the ball, claiming another three-wicket haul after his brilliant spell in the previous match. However, his efforts were not enough to prevent Kandy Royals from securing a memorable victory.
Brief Scores
Galle Gallants – 208/3 (20) Sam Harper 72, Charith Asalanka 70*, Zahir Khan 2/25
Kandy Royals – 214/4 (18.5) Lahiru Udara 132*, Pawan Sandesh 23, Sachindu Colombage 3/18
Result – Kandy Royals won by 6 wickets
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