Dambulla Sixers opener Kusal Perera in action (Twitter)
In what promises to be a thrilling encounter, Dambulla Sixers are set to face off against the Jaffna Kings in Match 8 of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2024 on Saturday, July 6, at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.
This clash is particularly intriguing as the last time these two sides met, the Kings emerged victorious. This adds an extra layer of excitement as the Sixers are seeking revenge and the Kings are aiming to stamp their authority.
DS vs JK: Team Previews
Dambulla Sixers
Dambulla Sixers have had a dismal start to their LPL 2024 campaign, finding themselves at the bottom of the points table with two consecutive losses.
Their opening match saw them suffer a six-wicket defeat at the hands of the Kandy Falcons. In their most recent outing, the Jaffna Kings handed them another setback with a four-wicket win.
Despite a massive score of 191/2, powered by wicketkeeper Kusal Perera's scintillating 102 off 52 balls, the Sixers' bowlers couldn’t hold their nerve.
Nimesh Vimukthi had a torrid time, conceding 50 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket. Nuwan Thushara and Mustafizur Rahman showed some fight, picking up 2 wickets each, but their efforts were overshadowed by Akila Dhananjaya's expensive spell of 41 runs in three overs.
Mohammad Nabi’s economical 1/20 in four overs was a rare bright spot. For the Sixers to turn the tide, their bowling unit must step up and deliver under pressure as they search for their first win of LPL 2024.
Jaffna Kings
On the other hand, Jaffna Kings have bounced back strongly after a disappointing start, where they lost to the Galle Marvels.
They are now sitting comfortably at the top of the table with two wins on the trot. Their last game showcased their batting brilliance, successfully chasing down a daunting target of 188 with just two balls to spare.
Azmatullah Omarzai was the hero of the match, taking 2/33 with the ball and then smashing a rapid 35 off just 13 balls to steer his team to victory. Rilee Rossouw also played a crucial role, scoring a solid 67 off 42 balls.
However, the Kings will be looking for more consistency from their spinners, Fabian Allen and Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, who have yet to hit top form.
DS vs JK: Match details & Live Streaming
Date & Time | July 6, 7:30 PM (IST) |
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Venue | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla |
Broadcast & Live Streaming | Star Sports Network & FanCode |
DS vs JK: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The first match of LPL 2024 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium between Galle and Jaffna revealed a batting-friendly surface, with a first innings score of 187 being successfully chased. Pacers will need to be crafty with their variations, while spinners must rely on flight and guile, as the pitch offers little assistance. The team winning the toss is likely to opt for fielding first, aiming to chase under the lights.
DS vs JK: Probable playing XIs
Dambulla Sixers: Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Perera (wk), Nuwanidu Fernando, Towhid Hridoy, Mark Chapman, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Mohammad Nabi (c), Akila Dananjaya, Nuwan Thushara, Mustafizur Rahman, Dilshan Madushanka
Jaffna Kings: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Rilee Rossouw, Avishkar Fernando, Alex Ross, Charith Asalanka (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Fabian Allen, Vijaykanth Viyaskanth, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan
DS vs JK: Fantoss Fantasy Tips
Role | Players |
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Wicket-keepers | Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis |
Batters | Danushka Gunathilaka, Mark Chapman, Pathum Nissanka, Rilee Rossouw |
All-rounders | Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai |
Bowlers | Nuwan Thushara, Mustafizur Rahman, Asitha Fernando |
Captain | Azmatullah Omarzai |
Vice-captain | Kusal Perera |
DS vs JK: Winner Prediction
Considering the current form and overall team composition, Jaffna Kings are favourites to win the match.