Opting to bat first in the 40 overs match, the Lions lost an early wicket with Kasun departing without making any impact on the scoreboard. However, Ranuka’s quickfire knock of 20 helped stabilize the Lions’ innings momentarily. Unfortunately for them, they experienced a batting collapse following Ranuka’s dismissal, as Fahad and Ejaz unleashed some brilliant bowling. At one stage, the Lions were struggling at 51/5.
However, the game took a dramatic turn when Nadisan (44) and Ashita (53) forged an exceptional 103-run partnership for the sixth wicket, resurrecting the Lions’ innings and putting them in a favorable position once again. Nevertheless, Ejaz once again proved his mettle by dismantling the Lions’ tail-end swiftly, ultimately bundling them out for 190 runs in 33.4 overs. Ejaz displayed an outstanding performance, securing a five-wicket haul for a mere 28 runs.
In their chase, the Stars faltered right from the beginning, losing wickets at regular intervals without any substantial partnerships. Ejaz (28) was the lone player who exhibited some intent, but none of his teammates managed to reach double figures. Gimhana (4/23) emerged as the standout bowler for the Lions, leaving the Stars in disarray.
Overall, it was a disappointing surrender from the NL Stars to the Lions, who clearly demonstrated their superiority in this encounter. The Stars now face an uphill battle as they seek to regroup and bounce back in the upcoming games, finding a way to rekindle their fighting spirit.