Cricket: Amazon Betting Cup final |19 August 2023

LAKSTARS … Amazon Betting division 1 championship winners

Lakstars clinch Amazon Betting division 1 championship with dominant victory

In a sensational display of cricket prowess, Lakstars emerged victorious in the Amazon Betting division 1 championship final, defeating Gran Kaz Kings by a resounding margin of 37 runs at the Persévérance cricket ground.

This triumph marked Lakstars' return to glory after two years, securing their third T20 championship title and solidifying their position as the champions of Seychelles’ cricket.

Winning the toss, Lakstars' skipper led from the front as he decided to bat first. The team's batting brilliance was on full display as they posted a commanding total of 184 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

Thiwanka Rajapaksha's standout performance stole the show, as he anchored the innings with a mesmerising century.

His unbeaten knock of 112 runs off 68 balls, with 17 boundaries and 2 sixes, made Gran Kaz Kings bowlers appear nearly powerless.

The opening partnership between Thiwanka Rajapaksha and Janaka Rathnayake set the tone for Lakstars' innings, amassing a formidable 66-run stand before Janaka's dismissal at 5.4 overs.

 Amal Subasinghe's entry further fueled Lakstars' momentum, as he combined with Thiwanka to keep the scoreboard ticking.

Lakstars' steady partnerships continued and the innings was going at a good run rate, dominating the opponent bowlers, resulting in an imposing total.

Gran Kaz began their chase of 184 runs positively, with openers Md. Mazharul Islam and Tim Horpinitch stitching a 65-run partnership for the first wicket. However, Lakstars' bowlers rallied to regain control, picking up crucial wickets at regular intervals.

Amal Subasinghe's stellar bowling performance stole the limelight as he snared 3 vital wickets while conceding just 10 runs. The rest of Lakstars' bowling attack, including Saddam, Thiwanka, and Chamara, also made significant contributions, ultimately limiting Gran Kaz to a total of 147 runs in their 20 overs.

Byron Paul's resilient unbeaten knock of 46 runs and the efforts of Md. Mazharul Islam and Tim Horpinitch, who scored 38 and 36 runs respectively, were insufficient to bridge the gap and overcome Lakstars' dominant showing.

Player of the tournament

Thiwanka Rajapaksha's exceptional all-around performance earned him the well-deserved title of player-of-the-match, showcasing his remarkable batting skills and vital role in Lakstars' success throughout the tournament.

Most Valuable Player - Thiwanka Rajapaksha

His exceptional contributions also led to him being awarded the most valuable player of the tournament, a fitting acknowledgment of his consistent brilliance.

Champions

With this triumphant victory, Lakstars cemented their position as the champions of the Amazon Betting division 1 championship 2023, captivating cricket enthusiasts with their exceptional teamwork and individual brilliance.

Samith Lakpriya