Akif Javed, Sam Harper steer Galle Gallants to victory over Colombo Kaps in LPL 2026

COLOMBO: Pacer Akif Javed starred with the ball before Sam Harper struck a match-winning half-century as Galle Gallants defeated Colombo Kaps by five wickets to register their second victory in the ongoing Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground on Saturday.

Opting to bat first, Colombo Kaps posted a competitive 189/8 in their allotted 20 overs, thanks to impressive half-centuries from captain Kusal Mendis and Ben McDermott.

Leading from the front, Mendis top-scored with 79 off 53 deliveries, smashing two fours and seven sixes. McDermott provided valuable support with 57 from 34 balls, including six fours and two sixes.

The remainder of the batting line-up struggled to build on the solid platform.

Opener Rubin Hermann was dismissed for just one, while Sadeera Samarawickrama made 15 off seven balls, hitting two fours and a six. Kamindu Mendis chipped in with 10 from five deliveries, including a four and a six.

Janith Liyanage managed five from five balls, James Neesham remained unbeaten on 12 off eight deliveries with two boundaries, Malsha Tharupathi scored one, and Wanuja Sahan was dismissed for a duck.

Akif Javed led the Gallants' bowling attack with outstanding figures of 4/40 from his four overs. Eshan Malinga, Mohammad Nawaz and Dasun Shanaka claimed one wicket each.

In reply, Galle Gallants chased down the 190-run target with five wickets in hand and four balls to spare, reaching 190/5 in 19.2 overs.

Opener Sam Harper anchored the chase with a superb 65 off 45 deliveries, striking six fours and three sixes. Sahan Arachchige provided the finishing touches with an unbeaten 38 from just 16 balls, laced with seven boundaries.

Charith Asalanka also made a useful contribution, scoring 28 off 21 deliveries, including two sixes.

For Colombo Kaps, Hasan Mahmud and Wanuja Sahan claimed two wickets apiece, while James Neesham took one wicket.