Kandy Royals opened their Lanka Premier League 2026 account with a commanding 43 run triumph over Dambulla Sixers in the sixth match of the competition at the Dambulla International Cricket Stadium on July 21.
After losing their first two fixtures, Kandy responded with a polished performance in every department. Sent in to bat, the Royals compiled 194 for 6 from their 20 overs, building the innings around another assured display from Lahiru Udara.
The opener followed his fifty in the previous game with 51 from 34 balls. His innings featured five fours and two sixes, giving Kandy the strong foundation they needed. Captain Angelo Mathews and Wanindu Hasaranga then added valuable momentum, each contributing 29 to lift the score towards the 200 mark.
Fazalhaq Farooqi was the most economical bowler for Dambulla, claiming 2 for 20 across four overs while the rest of the attack found it difficult to contain the Royals.
Dambulla needed 195 to win and Sahibzada Farhan immediately gave them hope. The Pakistan opener attacked from the outset and powered his way to 74 from 45 deliveries, including seven fours and four sixes.
Farhan’s aggressive approach kept the chase alive, but the Sixers lost control once he was dismissed. Their middle order could not keep pace with the mounting requirement, while regular wickets prevented any meaningful recovery.
Nuwan Thushara delivered the decisive spell for Kandy. Although he conceded 18 runs in his first over, the fast bowler responded superbly and ended with 4 for 29 from four overs.
Supported by a disciplined bowling unit, Thushara helped limit Dambulla to 151 for 8. The result gave Kandy Royals their first points of the season and a much needed boost after a difficult start to the tournament. It was a strong statement from a side eager to rebuild confidence.
