In a thrilling conclusion to the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023, B-Love Kandy emerged victorious, securing the title by defeating Dambulla Aura in the final. The highlight of the match was the stellar performance of Sri Lankan veteran Angelo Mathews, who played a decisive role in guiding his team to a five-wicket victory with just one ball to spare.
Angelo Mathews was named the ‘Player of the Match’ for his masterful innings, remaining unbeaten with 25 not out. His calm and composed presence at the crease was pivotal in B-Love Kandy’s championship win, ensuring they reached the target set by Dambulla Aura.
Kamindu Mendis, the top scorer for Kandy, played a crucial role in setting the stage for Mathews’ heroics, contributing 44 runs. Mendis formed important partnerships, first amassing 49 runs for the opening wicket with Mohammad Haris and then adding another valuable 45 runs alongside Dinesh Chandimal before eventually being dismissed by Dambulla’s Noor Ahmad. Ahmad was a standout performer for Dambulla, taking three wickets, while Binura Fernando secured two wickets, adding excitement to the contest.
In the earlier stages of the match, Dambulla opted to bat first and managed to post a competitive total of 147-4 in their allotted 20 overs. The partnership between Dhananjaya de Silva (40) and Kusal Perera (31 not out) played a crucial role in propelling Dambulla’s score. Their 63-run partnership for the fourth wicket strengthened Dambulla’s efforts to set a challenging target. Chaturanga de Silva was the standout bowler for Kandy, taking two wickets, while Nuwan Pradeep and Mohammad Hasnain contributed with a wicket each.
With the final match of LPL 2023 coming to a thrilling end, it’s time to recognize the award winners of the tournament and the details of their prize money. B-Love Kandy’s triumph will surely be celebrated as a memorable moment in the LPL 2023.
The award winners on the night of the LPL 2023 Final were as follows: B-Love Kandy emerged as the winners, claiming the top prize of USD 100,000, while Dambulla Aura secured the runners-up position, earning USD 50,000. Wanindu Hasaranga showcased his all-around excellence, earning USD 1,500 each for being both the highest run-scorer and highest wicket-taker in the tournament. David Miller was recognized as the ‘Safe Hands of the Tournament’ and received a prize of USD 1,000. The ‘Emerging Player of the Tournament’ was Lasith Croospulle, who received USD 2,000 in recognition of his promising talent.
Angelo Mathews, for his exceptional performance in the LPL 2023 Final, was named the ‘Player of the Match’ and was awarded USD 2,500. Finally, Wanindu Hasaranga’s outstanding contributions throughout the tournament earned him the title of ‘Player of the Tournament,’ along with a prize of USD 5,000. These awards celebrated the outstanding performances and contributions of the players in the LPL 2023, highlighting their achievements and skills on the cricketing stage.
