Jaffna will face Kandy in LPL 2024 qualifier 2 [X]
On Saturday, Jaffna Kings will cross swords against Kandy Falcons in the second qualifier of the ongoing Lanka Premier League. The high-voltage clash is scheduled at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
JK vs KFL: Team Previews
Jaffna Kings
Led by Charith Asalanka, Jaffna Kings enjoyed stellar success in the group-stage, finishing second in the points table with five wins in eight matches.
However, they would be keen to assess the grey areas following a disastrous seven-wicket defeat against Galle Marvels in Qualifier 1.
On the batting front, the Kings have been heavily reliant on Avishka Fernando and Pathum Nissanka, their two most prolific batters in the tournament.
Despite being inconsistent, Rilee Rossouw has contributed some vital runs, including a ton, while the Kings would want better returns from two of their marquee players- Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka.
In the bowling department, Azmatullah Omarzai and Asitha Fernando have been the Kings' aces, while the eyes will also be on the wily spin duo of Fabian Allen and Tabraiz Shamsi.
Kandy Falcons
On the other hand, Kandy Falcons had a topsy-turvy journey until the eliminator where they swatted aside Colombo Strikers, entering qualifier 2 against all odds.
Amid Dinesh Chandimal's rough patch, Kamindu Mendis has emerged as the Falcons' saviour of late, slamming three fifties in his last four outings.
Andre Fletcher has also chipped in with quick runs at the top, while Wanindu Hasaranga, Angelo Mathews and Dasun Shanaka have lit up the stage with their all-round brilliance.
Therefore, although they lost to the Kings in their previous face-off, Kandy Falcons should be inspired by their recent exploits and would be keen to stun their opponents with a spirited performance.
JK vs KFL: Match details & Live streaming
Information | Details |
---|---|
Date & Time | July 20, 7.30 PM IST |
Venue | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo |
Live broadcast & streaming | Star Sports Network & FanCode |
JK vs KFL: R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report
The surface at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is expected to offer balanced conditions for batting and bowling.
However, if it's a used pitch, expect the spinners to play a massive role, with the pacers bringing cutters and slow balls into play.
Considering the chasing sides have won five of eight matches here this season, the toss-winner might opt to field first.
JK vs KFL: Probable Playing XIs
Jaffna Kings: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Rilee Rossouw, Avishka Fernando, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka (C), Azmatullah Omarzai, Wanuja Sahan, Fabian Allen, Asitha Fernando, Tabraiz Shamsi
Kandy Falcons: Dinesh Chandimal (WK), Andre Fletcher, Mohammad Haris, Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga (C), Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Ramesh Mendis, Chaturanga de Silva, Chamath Gomez, Mohammad Hasnain
JK vs KFL: Fantoss Fantasy Tips
Roles | Players |
---|---|
Wicket-keepers | Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal |
Batters | Avishka Fernando, Rilee Rossouw, Kamindu Mendis |
Allrounders | Angelo Mathews, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga |
Bowlers | Tabraiz Shamsi, Mohammad Hasnain |
Captain | Wanindu Hasaranga/Kamindu Mendis |
Vice Captain | Avishka Fernando |
JK vs KFL: Winner Prediction
Considering they have the winning momentum, Kandy Falcons are the favourites to emerge victorious in this match.