The University of Vavuniya Cricket Team recorded a convincing five-wicket victory over the Angels Cricket Team in a 50-over friendly one-day match held on 18th of July 2026. The University displayed an outstanding all-round performance, combining disciplined bowling with a composed batting display to secure a well-deserved win.
After winning the toss, the University of Vavuniya elected to field first, a decision that proved highly effective as the bowlers consistently applied pressure on the opposition throughout the innings.
Angels Innings
The Angels struggled to establish partnerships as the University bowlers maintained excellent line and length from the outset. Reduced to 73 for 6 in the 23rd over, the batting side found themselves under significant pressure.
A determined innings by Pirathi, who scored 41 runs from 52 deliveries, including two boundaries and three sixes, helped the Angels recover to some extent. Useful contributions from Saran (16) and Ajape (14) supported the innings, but the team was eventually dismissed for 132 runs in 33.3 overs.
The University of Vavuniya’s bowling attack delivered an exceptional performance. Sahan led the attack with 3 wickets for 27 runs in 7 overs, earning the Player of the Match award. He was well supported by Krishnan Kirubagaran, who claimed 2 wickets for 13 runs, and Mihina Iraj, who finished with 2 wickets for 19 runs. Mohammed Riwaqi also impressed with an economical spell, conceding only 8 runs in 6 overs while taking one wicket.
Angels – Top Batting Performers
- Pirathi – 41 (52 balls)
- Saran – 16 (52 balls)
- Ajape – 14 (23 balls)
University of Vavuniya – Best Bowling Figures
- Sahan – 7 overs, 1 maiden, 27 runs, 3 wickets
- Krishnan Kirubagaran – 3.3 overs, 13 runs, 2 wickets
- Mihina Iraj – 5 overs, 19 runs, 2 wickets
University of Vavuniya Innings
Chasing a target of 133, the University suffered an early setback as the Angels’ opening bowlers reduced the score to 7 for 4 within the first three overs.
Despite the difficult start, Sahan produced a remarkable unbeaten innings of 64 runs from 82 balls, demonstrating excellent composure and determination. He first steadied the innings with Charith Niroshan, who contributed 11 runs, before sharing an unbroken match-winning partnership with Pahan, who remained not out on 18 runs.
Benefiting from 37 extras, the University of Vavuniya successfully reached 133 for 5 in 28.1 overs, sealing a memorable five-wicket victory.
Although Dineash and Nidushan claimed two wickets each for the Angels, the modest target proved insufficient to prevent the University from completing the chase.
University of Vavuniya – Top Batting Performers
- Sahan – 64* (82 balls)
- Pahan – 18* (51 balls)
- Charith Niroshan – 11 (26 balls)
Angels – Best Bowling Figures
- Dineash – 3 overs, 16 runs, 2 wickets
- Nidushan – 3 overs, 17 runs, 2 wickets
- Saran – 9 overs, 33 runs, 1 wicket
Player of the Match
Sahan was deservedly named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance, claiming 3 wickets for 27 runs and following it up with a match-winning unbeaten 64 runs, playing a pivotal role in the University’s victory.
Match Summary
Match: Friendly 50-Over One-Day Cricket Match
Date: 18th of July 2026
Venue: University of Vavuniya Ground
Toss: University of Vavuniya won the toss and elected to field.
Angels: 132 all out in 33.3 overs
University of Vavuniya: 133/5 in 28.1 overs
Result: University of Vavuniya won by 5 wickets.
The University of Vavuniya Cricket Team demonstrated excellent teamwork, resilience, and determination throughout the match. The disciplined bowling effort, coupled with Sahan’s outstanding all-round performance, ensured a well-earned victory and reflected the team’s continued progress and competitive spirit.