News

West Indies level series

Published

2 years ago

June 26, 2024

Editor

West Indies Women’s tour of Sri Lanka 2024

West Indies Women’s team showcased an exceptional performance in the second T20I against Sri Lanka, leading them to a well-deserved 6-wicket victory. This victory helped them level the series 1-1, after facing a clean sweep in the ODI series and losing the first T20I. The match, which took place at Hambanthota International Cricket stadium, was affected by rain but that didn’t hinder the West Indies’ dominance.

Sri Lanka, batting first, managed to post a score of 89-4 before rain interrupted the game in the 15th over. In response, the West Indies successfully chased down the revised target of 99 runs in 15 overs with 5 balls to spare.

The hosts had a promising start with a 44-run opening partnership between their captain, Chamari Athapattu, and Vishmi Gunaratne. However, Athapattu’s dismissal by Afy Fletcher’s exceptional delivery turned the tide in favor of the West Indies. Sri Lanka struggled to maintain a good scoring rate and faced difficulties in making clean contact with the ball.

To add to their woes, Sri Lanka lost their second wicket when Imesha Dulani was bowled by Afy Fletcher once again. This put them in a precarious position with a score of 2-52 in 10 overs. Despite their efforts to accelerate the scoring, Sri Lanka faced another setback when Harshitha Samarawickrama was caught at mid-on in the 13th over. Shortly after, Vishmi Gunaratne was caught LBW, further weakening their position.

However, Kavisha Dilhari’s counter-attack in the death overs provided some momentum for Sri Lanka. Unfortunately, rain interrupted play at a score of 89-4 in 15.2 overs, and Sri Lanka’s innings couldn’t be resumed. As a result, the West Indies were given a revised target of 99 runs, which they successfully achieved.

During the pursuit, Taylor and captain Hayley Matthews got the visiting team off to a great start, scoring 44 runs in 6.5 overs. This ensured that West Indies maintained a lead over the DLS-par score. After Matthews was dismissed by a Sachini Nisansala arm ball, Taylor took on the responsibility of leading the chase. In a partnership with Shemaine Campbelle, Taylor played a supporting role by giving strike to her more aggressive partner, who scored 16 runs off 13 balls. Despite the subsequent dismissals of Campbelle, Qiana Joseph, and Chedean Nation, West Indies maintained a positive approach and the required run rate was always manageable. Aaliyah Alleyne then sealed the victory for West Indies with three boundaries off Kavisha Dilhari in the second-to-last over of the innings.

Brief scores:

Sri Lanka 89-4 (Chamari Athapaththu 26, Vishmi Gunaratne 24, Afy Fletcher 4-23)

West Indies 99-4 (Hayely Matthews 29, Stafanie Taylor 28*, Chamari Athapaththu 1-18, Sachini Nisansala 1-18)

Athletics

Tharanga Claims Historic Gold in Nairobi with Record-Breaking Throw

Published

23 hours ago

April 26, 2026

Editor

Sri Lanka’s rising javelin sensation Rumesh Tharanga delivered a remarkable performance on the international stage, clinching gold at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi with a stunning meet record throw of 89.28 metres.

Competing against an elite field, Tharanga outshone some of the sport’s biggest names, including Olympic champion Thomas Röhler and Kenya’s celebrated Olympic silver medallist and world champion Julius Yego. His victory marks one of the most significant achievements in Sri Lankan athletics in recent years.

The triumph is further highlighted by Tharanga’s consistency, as this is his second throw exceeding 89 metres within a month. Such performances signal his growing dominance and position him firmly among the world’s top javelin throwers this season.

News

Seneviratne Elected NOC President in Key Vote for Sri Lanka Sports Future

Published

1 day ago

April 26, 2026

Editor

Asanga Seneviratne was elected as the new President of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka following a decisive vote held today, marking a significant leadership change at a crucial juncture for the nation’s sporting landscape.

Seneviratne, who also heads the Sri Lanka Baseball Softball Association, secured a clear majority with 16 votes. His closest contender, Jaswar Umar, garnered 11 votes, while Shirantha Peiris received 2.

The election outcome places Seneviratne at the helm of the country’s premier Olympic body as Sri Lanka intensifies preparations for a series of upcoming regional and international competitions.

His appointment is expected to play a key role in shaping the direction of national sports development and strengthening the country’s presence on the global stage.

Cricket

LPL Sixth Edition to Be Played Across Four Venues from July 10 to August 5

Published

4 days ago

April 22, 2026

Editor

The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) is set to take place from July 10 to August 5, 2026, promising another exciting season of top-quality Twenty20 cricket. As Sri Lanka’s premier domestic T20 competition with a strong international presence, the tournament continues to attract both local and overseas talent.

This year’s matches will be held across four venues: Sinhalese Sports Club Ground (SSC), R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium (RPICS), Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (PICS), and Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS). These iconic grounds are expected to provide a vibrant atmosphere and excellent playing conditions throughout the competition.

The online registration portal for foreign players will officially open on May 4, 2026, allowing international cricketers to sign up and participate in the league. This step ensures the continuation of LPL’s global appeal, as overseas players add competitiveness and diversity to the tournament.

The event will be organized by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the official owner of the league, in partnership with The IPG Group, which holds the event rights. Their collaboration has been instrumental in maintaining the league’s high standards since its inception.

Launched in 2020, the LPL has rapidly grown in popularity among cricket fans. Mr. Samantha Dodanwela, an Executive Committee Member of SLC, will continue in his role as Tournament Director, ensuring smooth organization and execution.

With thrilling matches and star players expected, LPL 2026 is set to deliver another unforgettable cricketing spectacle.