Lanka Lions book last eight berth in Sharjah Ramadan tournament

Oshadha Warnapura produced a fine all-round performance as Lanka Lions defeated Ibsons Group by 25 runs to move into the quarter-finals of the 23rd Sharjah Ramadan Tournament for the Interface Transworld Cup at the Sharjah stadium on Tuesday night.

The tournament, organised by the Sharjah Cricket Council, is supported by 106.2 HUM FM and CBFS as associate sponsors.

The ace all-rounder first struck a useful 34 not out off 37 balls with two fours and then snared two wickets for 24 runs to help his side see off a determined challenge from Ibsons Group.

Lanka Lions, electing to bat first, knocked up a challenging 159 for eight in the allotted 25 overs. Kelum Fernando top-scored with 39 off 37 balls with four fours and one six. Omar and Umair claimed two wickets apiece.

Ibsons Group, in reply, were bowled out in the penultimate over despite a brilliant innings of 43 by Kashif. Tanvir (27 off 16) and Baber Mali (27 off 23) tried to keep Ibsons Group hopes alive, but Lanka Lions bowlers, in the end, had the final say.

Indika bowled well, taking three for just 13 while Tharaka and Warnapura picked up two each to seal a well-deserved victory.

Brief scores:

Lanka Lions SC beat to Ibsons Group by 25 runs: Lanka Lions 159 for 8 in 25 overs (Kelum Fernando 39, Oshadha Warnapura 34 not out; Omar 2-30, Umair 2-18) Ibsons Group 134 all out in 23.5 overs (Kashif 43, Tanvir 27, Baber Mali 27; Indika 3-13, Tharaka 2-16, Warnapura 2-24). Man of the match: Oshadha Warnapura of Lanka Lions. Umpires: Tariq Butt and Hamid Mukhtar.