Galle Gallants etched their name into Lanka Premier League history by capturing their first championship following an impressive five wicket victory over Jaffna Kings in the 2026 final at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo on August 8.
Jaffna won the toss and elected to set a target, but their innings never gathered the momentum required for a major total. Regular breakthroughs from the Galle bowlers kept the pressure firmly on the Kings, who were eventually limited to 123.
Kamil Mishara offered the strongest resistance at the top of the order, scoring 41 from 32 balls with five fours. However, his effort was not enough to build a competitive platform as wickets continued to fall around him.
Charith Asalanka and Eshan Malinga were the key figures with the ball for Galle. Asalanka used his off spin effectively to trouble the Jaffna batters, while Malinga made an impact with his pace. Both finished with three wickets, playing a major role in keeping the opposition to a modest score.
Set 124 to secure the trophy, Galle approached the chase with confidence. Thomas Rogers contributed an important 34 at the top of the order before Dinura Kalupahana strengthened their position with a composed 31 in the middle order.
Although Jaffna attempted to fight their way back into the contest, Galle remained comfortably ahead of the required rate and completed the chase during the 16th over with five wickets still available.
Shakib Al Hasan and Traveen Mathew picked up two wickets each for Jaffna, but their efforts could not change the outcome.
The victory completed a memorable campaign for Galle Gallants and delivered the franchise its maiden Lanka Premier League championship, marking a historic moment in the club’s journey.
