The Lanka Premier League (LPL) seems to have an unexpected fan: snakes. Remarkably, a snake disrupted play for the third time this season. The initial surprise came during a match between Galle Titans and Dambulla Aura. That was just the beginning. During a recent game at R Premadasa Stadium, the reptilian intruder made another appearance. This game was a face-off between B-Love Kandy and Jaffna Kings.
Picture this: it was the second innings. Kandy was energetically fielding. Isuru Udana, the pacer, had just bowled. As he adjusted his fielding position near the outfield, drama unfolded. The camera captured a snake slithering on the pitch. Udana, quite oblivious, approached it. However, once he noticed the serpent, his reaction was swift. Understandably startled, he sidestepped in haste.
This captivating moment quickly captured netizens’ attention. The video spread like wildfire online. While many found humour in Udana’s startled reaction, concerns arose too. The recurrent snake sightings are worrisome. Especially considering that the prestigious Asia Cup is slated at the same venue soon. Specifically, six games are scheduled at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium in just three weeks.
Moving beyond the snake saga, the match itself was electrifying. B-Love Kandy clinched a nail-biting victory against the Kings by a mere 8 runs. This win ensured their spot in the playoffs. Impressively, they are the second team to do so, with Dambulla Aura leading the pack. Kandy’s triumph in this match marked their fourth victory this season. Udana, despite his reptilian encounter, made a mark. He took the pivotal wicket of David Miller.
Lanka Premier League (LPL) : When Snakes Steal the Spotlight
Snake in LPL…!!!!
A lucky escape for Udana. pic.twitter.com/R3Gg2yxVkh
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 13, 2023
All these snakes showing up in anticipation of a Naagin dance celebration? 🐍 #LPL2023 #LPLOnFanCode pic.twitter.com/quKUACGr9u
— FanCode (@FanCode) August 13, 2023
Snake in LPL…!!!!
A lucky escape for Udana. pic.twitter.com/R3Gg2yxVkh
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 13, 2023
But the real star was Angelo Mathews. He displayed exceptional bowling prowess, decimating the Kings’ top order. He bagged three wickets in the opening five overs. The Kings, however, showcased resilience. Shoaib Malik’s valiant fifty and skipper Thisara Perera’s rapid 36 invigorated their innings. Yet, despite their efforts, they couldn’t overcome the set target.
YOU MAY ALSO READ: Here Is The Reason Why BCCI Lost The Golden Tick In X (Twitter)
For the Kings, the path to playoffs is tense. Their qualification hinges on their last league match’s outcome. Unfortunately, their recent performance against Galle Titans wasn’t promising. They were bowled out for a paltry 89 runs.
This LPL season intertwines excitement and unpredictability. While on-field performance keeps fans on edge, off-field surprises, like the snake encounters, add a unique twist. As the playoffs loom, one hopes only cricketing skills steal the limelight.
