August 09, Colombo (LNW): Galle Gallants have etched their name into Lanka Premier League history, capturing their first championship after overcoming Jaffna Kings by five wickets in a one-sided final at Colombo’s R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium.
The Gallants produced a disciplined bowling display to dismiss Jaffna for 123 before completing the chase at 126 for five in just 15.5 overs, finishing the contest with 25 deliveries to spare.
Charith Asalanka emerged as the standout performer with the ball, claiming three wickets for 20 runs, while Eshan Malinga provided equally valuable support with three for 25. Their combined efforts kept the Jaffna batting order under sustained pressure and prevented the Kings from building a defendable total.
Kamil Mishara offered the strongest resistance for Jaffna, making 41 from 32 deliveries. Chamindu Wickramasinghe contributed 24 from 16 balls, but regular wickets meant the Kings struggled to generate the late-innings acceleration normally required in a T20 final.
Galle’s pursuit suffered an early blow when Sam Harper departed in the opening over. Tom Rogers then brought stability to the innings with a measured 34 from 27 balls, while Dinura Kalupahana injected greater urgency with a brisk 31 off 19.
Jaffna briefly sensed an opening when Shakib Al Hasan struck twice in the ninth over, removing both Rogers and Kalupahana. Chamika Karunaratne also fell soon afterwards, leaving the Gallants needing to keep their composure.
Dasun Shanaka and Sahan Arachchige ensured there was no late drama, steering Galle over the line and completing a landmark victory for the franchise.
The triumph represents a significant turnaround for the Gallants, who had previously come close to LPL glory without claiming the trophy. Their success in the 2026 final was built on an outstanding bowling performance followed by a controlled chase under pressure.