The University of Colombo hosted an exhilarating cricket final as part of the Sri Lanka University Games 2023. The much-anticipated match took place at the University Ground of the University of Colombo on August 18th, 2023, where the University of Sri Jayewardenepura faced off against the University of Colombo. The action-packed encounter culminated in a memorable victory for the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.
Winning the toss, the University of Colombo elected to bat, setting the stage for an intense battle on the pitch. After 50 overs of play, the University of Colombo managed to put up a competitive total of 197 for the loss of 9 wickets. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura showcased their mettle, chasing down the target of 198 with just 5 wickets down, sealing their victory in the final over of the game’s 44th over.
The standout performer of the final was undoubtedly Umesh Lakshan from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. His exceptional innings of 102 runs from 115 balls, including 8 fours and 2 sixes, played a pivotal role in securing the championship title. Sheran Fonseka’s unbeaten 38 runs from 73 balls also played a crucial role in guiding the University of Sri Jayewardenepura to victory. Furthermore, the bowling duo of Kasun Rodrigo and Dinath Dissanayake made crucial contributions to the University of Sri Jayewardenepura’s victory, picking up 3 wickets for 42 runs and 2 wickets for 25 runs, respectively.The team’s captain, Asel Sigera, and Isuru Kavinda each took 1 wicket, showcasing a collective effort that was instrumental in restricting the University of Colombo’s score.
The victory in the finals was a culmination of outstanding performances throughout the tournament. Umesh Lakshan continued his exceptional form, emerging as the leading run-scorer of the tournament with a total of 398 runs from 6 innings. Leshan Amarasinghe also left his mark, securing the 3rd place in the list of most runs scored, with a total of 235 runs from 6 innings. On the bowling front, Kavindu Ediriweera from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura was the standout bowler of the tournament, claiming an impressive tally of 13 wickets from 6 innings.
The Sri Lanka University Games 2023 cricket tournament not only showcased the exceptional cricketing talent among the country’s university students but also highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that underpins such events. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura’s triumph in the finals serves as a testament to their dedication, skill, and teamwork.
On behalf of the entire university community, hearty congratulations are extended to the University of Sri Jayewardenepura cricket team for their unbeaten run and triumph in the Sri Lanka University Games 2023, clinching the cricket championship.
Image Source : MoraSpirit
