Jaffna on the brink of final berth

An all-round team show from Jaffna, virtually helped them to stage an upset imminent win against Colombo, as it was only a matter of time in reaching the finals at the end of day-03, in the first semi at Hambantota, yesterday.

The northerners were on the verge of a win, but despite racing against time to conclude the proceedings, they were made to wait for the win only needing another 67 and 25 for no loss. Due to the prevailing situation in the country, SLC has declared today as a rest day and the match will see the result tomorrow.

Colombo, the best team with three wins from four, are about to suffer a surprise defeat after being dismantled in their second innings for 158.

Captain Dimuth Karunaratne, taking wings to England for his county cricket debut exactly in a week, failed to fire in both the innings including a golden duck in the second innings.

The Dhananjaya de Silvaled Jaffna were the better side throughout the semis, having dismissed the coastal city for a decent total and gaining a handy 69-run lead. If not for Kusal Mendis’s unbeaten 114, Colombo would’ve been in an embarrassing situation of getting out lower than that.

Skipper Silva starred with the ball claiming a five-for, also accounting for his counterpart captain. Jaffna, in response, also had a centurion in Saminda Fernando 123, and top- order batter Navod Pathirana chipping in with a 42.

The North team bowled brilliantly in their second essay with all bowlers rewarded with wickets.