The Jaffna Kings triumphed in the 2024 LPL Final

In a dazzling display of power hitting, Rilee Rossouw and Kusal Mendis led the Jaffna Kings to a historic victory in the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2024 final, clinching their fourth title in five seasons. Their performance not only set new records but also overwhelmed the Galle Marvels in a packed Khettarama Stadium.

Rossouw’s explosive innings of 106 off 53 balls and Mendis’ swift 72 off 40 balls propelled the Kings to an impressive chase of 185 runs in just 15.5 overs, marking the highest chase in LPL history. Their unbeaten partnership of 185 runs for the second wicket was the highest for any wicket across all LPL seasons, further cementing their place in tournament lore. This victory underscores Jaffna’s dominance, with the franchise winning four out of the five LPL tournaments held, having missed out only in 2023.

The match was not just about batting brilliance; Jaffna’s bowlers played a crucial role earlier in the game. Excellent spells from Jason Behrendorff, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Fabian Allen had the Galle Marvels in trouble at 23 for 3 after seven overs. Despite a valiant effort from Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who scored a dynamic 82 off 34 balls, the Marvels’ total of 184 for 6 fell short against the relentless Kings’ batting.

Rossouw’s innings was particularly notable for its sheer aggression. He initiated the chase with early boundaries, including an intentional shot in the second over, and his onslaught truly began in the fourth over. Rossouw hammered Isuru Udana for significant boundaries, including a massive hit over deep extra cover and another over deep midwicket. His assault continued through the middle overs, as he dispatched Prabath Jayasuriya and Theekshana with ease, reaching his fifty in just 29 balls. His later exploits included smashing three fours and a six off Janith Liyanage, nearly securing a second century in the tournament. Despite needing just 21 runs from 42 balls with nine wickets in hand, the only uncertainty was whether Mendis would finish the chase before Rossouw could complete his century. Rossouw achieved this milestone comfortably, celebrated with his signature bazooka gesture, and hit the winning run.

Mendis, fresh from his unbeaten 105 in the semi-final, was in fine form again. He scored 32 off 13 balls during the powerplay, exploiting gaps with precise boundary shots. While Rossouw targeted the boundaries between deep cover and deep midwicket, Mendis found his own scoring zones. Although Mendis was dropped on 67 in the 14th over, the game was nearly won by that point.

Despite being overshadowed by the star duo, Bhanuka Rajapaksa’s innings was pivotal in setting a challenging target. Rajapaksa’s 82 featured a mix of elegant late cuts, powerful drives, and well-placed flicks. Tim Seifert also contributed with a solid 47 off 37 balls, forming a 62-run partnership with Rajapaksa. Seifert’s quick runs came from three consecutive sixes and a four off V Viyaskanth’s bowling. However, many of the Marvels’ other batters struggled with timing on the pitch.

The Kings’ bowlers made their mark early on, with Behrendorff leading the charge. He was particularly effective in the powerplay, restricting the Marvels’ openers and conceding only five runs from his three overs. The spin duo of Allen and de Silva also performed admirably, with Allen allowing just 10 runs from two overs and de Silva conceding only six in his opening over. Their slow bowling on a pitch offering some turn proved to be a crucial factor in the Marvels’ struggle to build a substantial innings.

Jaffna’s comprehensive win, driven by record-breaking performances and strategic bowling, underlines their exceptional dominance in the LPL over the years.