In a thrilling limited-over encounter at the SSC grounds, Ananda College, led by Iruth Gimshan, showcased remarkable teamwork to secure a memorable victory over their traditional rivals Nalanda, reclaiming the prestigious P. de S. Kularatne Memorial Trophy after a seven-year hiatus.
Ananda College’s triumph was spearheaded by an outstanding batting display, with Dinada Athalage playing a pivotal role with a superb unbeaten knock of 70 runs.
Supported by Kanchana de Livera, who contributed a valuable 55 runs, Ananda College successfully chased down the target of 229 with 6.5 overs to spare.
Despite a strong start from Nalanda, with openers Sahan Lithmina scoring 46 runs in 54 balls, adorned with 8 fours, and in-form opener Sadew Samarasinghe achieving a milestone by completing a thousand runs this season with his contribution of 54 runs, forming an impressive partnership of 85 runs, Nalanda struggled to maintain momentum thereafter. Ultimately, they managed to post a total of 228 for 8 wickets in their allotted 50 overs.
Awards Best Fielder Ruvishan Perera (Ananda), Best Bowler – Ayesh Shashimal (Ananda), Best Batsman – Sadew Samarasinghe (Nalanda, Man of the Match – Dinada Athalage (Ananda)