Nawaloka clinch MCA Division ‘C’ NDB Trophy after stellar performance
Nawaloka Hospitals recorded a massive 190-win against LOLC Holdings to win the Mercantile Premier Division ‘C’ 50-Over League title in the final played at Bloomfield ground. Displaying true sportsmanship under the captaincy of veteran Samith Ruberu, Nawaloka Hospitals claimed the NDB Trophy in the process, keeping intact their unbeaten run throughout the competition.
In what was expected to be a grueling final, Nawaloka Hospitals won the toss and elected to bat as they completed the allotted number of overs while posting 265 for the loss of eight wickets. Requiring 266 runs for victory, LOLC Holdings were shot out for 75 runs following a collective effort from Nawaloka Hospitals bowlers.
Nawaloka Hospitals captain Samith Ruberu, receiving the NDB Trophy after leading his team to victory in the MCA Division ‘C’ final
During their essay, Nawaloka Hospitals were bolstered by key performances from Thiwanka Kekulawala, Samila Nadeesh and Raveen Sayer. Kekulawala anchored the innings with a composed 62 from 87 balls, inclusive of five boundaries and a six before Nadeesh delivered a powerful knock of 51. His enterprising knock came off just 37 deliveries, inclusive of three fours and three sixes. Sayer provided crucial support with a well-paced 44 from 46 balls, hitting four boundaries and two sixes. In bowling, Sidath Mallawaarchchi was instrumental, claiming three wickets conceding 46 runs for LOLC Holdings, effectively curbing the opposition’s momentum.
In response, LOLC Holdings struggled, before being bowled out for just 75 runs. Sampath Nissanka led the charge with impressive figures of four wickets for 28 runs, while Kekulawala returned to acquire three wickets conceding just 17 runs. Chanaka Devinda also made a significant impact, claiming two wickets for 20 runs, completing a dominant bowling performance.
For his timely all-round performance in the final and consistency throughout the competition representing Nawaloka Hospitals, Thiwanka Kekulawala was presented with the Player of the Final and Player of the Tournament awards, while Thaveesha Abishek claimed the award for the Best Batsman.