"VAN" (Sports Desk - 10.08.2026) :: Galle Gallants created history at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, securing their maiden Lanka Premier League (LPL) championship with a commanding five-wicket victory over four-time champions Jaffna Kings in a low-scoring final.
After winning the crucial battle with the ball and dismissing Jaffna Kings for just 123 in 19.3 overs, the Gallants produced a composed chase, reaching 126 for five in only 15.5 overs to lift the coveted LPL trophy with 25 balls to spare.
The final proved to be a dramatic contrast to the high-scoring encounters that had characterised much of the tournament. Jaffna, who had demonstrated their batting strength throughout the competition, struggled to establish momentum after being sent into trouble by a disciplined Galle bowling attack.
Kamil Mishara provided the main resistance for Jaffna, top-scoring with 41, but wickets fell regularly around him. Galle captain Charith Asalanka led from the front with an outstanding three-wicket spell, claiming 3 for 20, while Eshan Malinga also played a decisive role with 3 for 25. Their combined six wickets dismantled the Jaffna batting line-up and ensured that the Kings were restricted to a modest total.
With 124 required for victory, Galle approached the chase with confidence despite losing wickets at regular intervals. Tim Seifert and Alex Hales provided the early momentum before the Gallants continued to chip away at the target.
Jamie Smith and other middle-order batters ensured that the pressure never became overwhelming, while Tom Rogers made a valuable contribution with 34 runs. The Gallants maintained control of the chase and eventually crossed the finishing line at 126 for five in 15.5 overs.
The victory completed a remarkable turnaround for Galle, who had suffered a heavy defeat to Jaffna in Qualifier 1 just three days earlier. Jaffna had posted a massive 242 for two in that encounter, winning by 14 runs. Galle responded strongly in Qualifier 2, defeating Colombo Kaps by six wickets before producing their most complete performance of the tournament in the final.
For Jaffna Kings, the defeat brought an end to their bid for another championship. Having established themselves as the most successful franchise in LPL history, the Kings were unable to reproduce the batting dominance that had carried them into the final.
For Galle Gallants, however, the victory represents a landmark moment. The franchise can now celebrate its first LPL title after a campaign that culminated in one of the tournament's most impressive final performances.
The Gallants' success was built on disciplined bowling, calm batting and an outstanding response under pressure. In a final where every run mattered, Galle produced when it mattered most — and deservedly walked away as LPL 2026 champions.
Cr - AIPS
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