Chandimal, Thisara steer Colombo to Provincial title

Skipper Dinesh Chandimal struck a masterful century and Thisara Perera claimed four for to lead Colombo to an easy 137-run win over Galle in the Inter-Provincial Limited over cricket final played at R Premadasa Stadium on Saturday. 

Chasing a mammoth 308 under lights, Galle were in deep trouble losing four wickets for 59 runs by the 12th over and were eventually bowled out for 170 in the 31st over. Thisara Perera was the pick of the bowler claiming four wickets for 41 runs while Sachithra Senanayake contributed with 2 wickets.

Batting first, Chandimal and Shehan Jayasuriya propelled Colombo to an imposing total as they shared 139 runs for the fifth wicket at a rapid space. Jayasuriya in particular showed scant respect to the bowlers and scored 77 off 74 before spinner Akila Dananjaya broke the partnership, removing Jayasuriya. 

Chandimal however continued his onslaught and remain unbeaten on 113 off 117 balls with 11 boundaries and three sixes. Chandimal was adjudged man of the match and the series while Saddeera Samarawickrama was named best batsman of the tournament.