Sheffield Sri Lankan Cricket Club

MATCH REPORT

Pontefract Sri Lankans vs Sheffield Sri Lankans
Lankan Premier League (UK) – 31 May 2026
Hearthill Cricket Ground, Sheffield

Sheffield Sri Lankans secured a thrilling one-wicket victory over Pontefract Sri Lankans in a closely contested Lankan Premier League encounter at Hearthill Cricket Ground on Sunday.

After winning the toss, Sheffield Sri Lankans elected to field first and were rewarded with an excellent bowling performance that restricted Pontefract Sri Lankans to 139 all out in 33.3 overs.

Pontefract's innings was anchored by Lahiru Dilshan Pathirana, who compiled a patient 34 runs from 53 deliveries, while Deepal Dissanayaka contributed a valuable 29 from 35 balls. Tharusha Tilakarathne added 17 runs, helping the side recover from a difficult start.

The standout performer with the ball was Linal Fonseka, who produced a match-winning spell of 4 wickets for just 22 runs from his 8 overs. He was well supported by Sonzi Amarasekera, who claimed 3 wickets for 35 runs, while Nipuna Jayanath and Harsha Perera chipped in with a wicket each.

In reply, Sheffield Sri Lankans made a flying start through the aggressive batting of Sajith Warnakulasuriya. His explosive 37 off just 21 balls, including five fours and two sixes, shifted the momentum firmly in Sheffield's favour. However, Pontefract fought back brilliantly, reducing Sheffield from 67/5 to 84/8 and bringing themselves back into the contest.

Roshan De Zoysa led the resistance with figures of 2 for 27, while Dishane Rodrigo also picked up 2 wickets. Lahiru Dilshan Pathirana, Thilantha Perera and Gayan Pathirathna each claimed a wicket as Sheffield's chase became increasingly tense.
With the match hanging in the balance at 119/9, Linal Fonseka once again stepped up, showing composure under pressure with an unbeaten 20. Together with Harsha Perera (7 not out), he guided Sheffield Sri Lankans over the line, reaching 143/9 in 25.3 overs to seal a dramatic one-wicket victory.

Match Summary

Pontefract Sri Lankans – 139 all out (33.3 overs)
Lahiru Dilshan Pathirana 34, Deepal Dissanayaka 29
Linal Fonseka 4/22, Sonzi Amarasekera 3/35

Sheffield Sri Lankans – 143/9 (25.3 overs)
Sajith Warnakulasuriya 37, Danuka Hettiarachchi 24, Linal Fonseka 20*
Roshan De Zoysa 2/27, Dishane Rodrigo 2/29

Result:
Sheffield Sri Lankans won by 1 wicket.

Player of the Match:
Linal Fonseka – 4/22 and 20* in a match-winning all-round performance.
#2026

🦁 LPL-UK 2026 | SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT 🦁

The first squad announcement of the inaugural Lankan Premier League (UK) season is here!

Sheffield Sri Lankan Cricket Club have named their squad for the opening fixture against Pontefract Sei Lankan Cricket Club.

📅 31 May 2026
📍 Thorpe Rd, Harthill,
Sheffield S26 7YF

The countdown is over. The journey begins. Wishing both teams the very best for what promises to be an exciting start to the LPL-UK season.

Follow our page throughout the season for fixtures, results, player performances, league tables, and match highlights.

🏏 Four Teams. One League. One Champion.

Premier League - UK

Hey everyone! 🌟 Just wanted to send out a huge THANK YOU to our amazing sponsors, Presto express Mr Sampath and Sport Lockers Mr Shanuka! Your support means the world to us. A special shoutout to one of our star player Mr Anandakrishnan Thangaiah ⁩ for generously sponsoring 🍵lunch for our players and their families. We really appreciate your kindness! 🙏❤️

🔥🏏 THE BATTLE OF PRIDE IS ON! 🏏🔥

🏏Lankan Premier League UK 🏏

Two proud teams. One epic clash.
⚔️ Pontefract Sri Lankans vs Sheffield Sri Lankans ⚔️

Get ready for a day full of passion, energy, and unforgettable cricket moments as these lions roar on the field! 🦁💙🧡

📅 31 May 2026
⏰ 12:00 PM
📍 Hearthill Cricket Ground, Sheffield S26 7YF

Bring your friends, family, and your loudest cheers! Let’s celebrate cricket, community, and Sri Lankan spirit together 🇱🇰🇬🇧

Hearthill cricket club
Thorpe Rd, Harthill, Sheffield S26 7YF