Colombo Stars hold their nerves to get back to winning ways 

Mendis, Shafiq propel Stars to a strong total 

Invited to bat first, the Gladiators got off to an impressive start with Thanuka Dabare and Mendis. The duo added 51 runs in less than six overs before Dabare perished for 33 off 22. 

Then, Lahiru Udara arrived at number three and played a breezy inning of 24 off 14 to continue the team's momentum. Afterwards, the experienced Asad Shafiq fired all cylinders to put the team in a dominating position. 

Shafiq (58 off 33) and Kusal Mendis put together an 88-run stand which helped Stars to a total of 193. Naveen-ul-Haq bagged two wickets for the Stars. 

Proficient batters seal the game for Stars

In response to the chase, Stars lost their in-form batter Niroshan Dickwella (2) early. However, the reputed batters, Dinesh Chandimal and Charith Asalanka were up to their task to steer the team in a lavish fashion. 

Their terrific 92-run stand was broken by Wahab Riaz, who dismissed Chandimal for a well-compiled 63 off 33. Asalanka played well to score 46 off 38, before becoming a victim to Anwar Ali. 

Benny Howell (22 off 9) and Ravi Bopara (31* off 12) sealed a terrific chase for the team. Anwar and Nuwan Thushara picked three wickets each in a losing cause. 

Brief Scores: 

Galle Gladiators - 193/5 (20)

Kusal Mendis 72 (49), Asad Shafiq 58 (33);
Naveen-ul-Haq 2/33, Seekkuge Prasanna 1/22

Colombo Stars -  197/8 (20)

Dinesh Chandimal 63 (33), Charith Asalanka 46 (38);
Nuwan Thushara 3/29, Anwar Ali 3/44

Result: Colombo Stars won by 2 wickets

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