Jaffna Kings are getting into the zone following another relatively convincing win over the Dambulla Sixers. Having lost their first game to the Galle Marvels, in a tightly fought contest, things were looking jittery for the 3-time champions. A team with a new captain and a host of new players, following their weak showing in the 2023 edition of the Lanka Premier League, a lot was riding on how the team would pull itself back.
And pull themselves back they did. With a 30-run victory over the new-look Dambulla Sixers, the team from the North has defeated Dambulla for the second time this season, strengthening the qualification chances. In this post, we will look at what is working for 3-time champions and look at their prospects going forward.
A New Look Jaffna Kings
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Not being able to defend their title in addition to missing out on the final spot would have hit hard for the proud team from the North of Sri Lanka. Having won the title 3 times in a row much was expected of the side, a side that featured top-class players like David Miller. But they failed to deliver. It might interest the reader to know that in the entirety of LPL 2023 Jaffna Kings only managed 3 victories. They have now equaled that mark in just four games. Things could get better as the overseas players in the side start getting into the groove.
A lot has changed in this new look Jaffna lineup. For a start, the owners and leadership decided it was time to clean house as they moved on from 4-time captain Thisera Perera, and veteran Pakistan batsman Shoaib Malik. More changes took place behind the scenes with coach Thilina Kandamby being replaced by former Sri Lanka international Avishka Gunawardena. A key change for the Jaffna Kings this season has been the quality of the local talent: with the likes of Kusal Mendis, the inform Pathum Nissanka, Dhananjaya de Silva; led by the explosive Charith Asalanka.
A Team that Showcases New Intent
If one is trying a side-by-side comparison of all teams in the Lanka Premier League this year’s contingent is a visibly stronger one. With top-class international players on all five teams. However, Jaffna has managed to strike that balance with a strong core of local talent with quality international players, featuring the likes of Rilee Rossouw. Who was a surprising omission in South Africa’s World T20 squad?
In addition to the strong batting lineup, this year’s Jaffna side showcases greater clarity and intent when it comes to its approach to games. Knowledge of the depth it has in the batting department the team keep pushing the scoreboard alone, without any slowdown in the middle overs. Added to this is a strong set of all-rounders, with the likes of Azmatullah Omarzai in the lineup, this is a team that does not give up.
A Title Contender for LPL 2024
Whilst it is too early to call, Jaffna Kings have now shown themselves to be one of the top sides contending for the 2024 Lanka Premier League title. A strong batting lineup, tight bowlers with attacking options and clarity of focus showcased by the players means that other teams in the competition must take notice. If you are a betting man, Jaffna a good bet to qualify for the playoffs, and beyond.
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