Winning coach Thilina Kandamby believes Jaffna Kings Vijayakanth Viyasakanth grabbed his opportunity after champion bowler Wanindu Hasaranga opted to play for Kandy Falcons at this year’s Lanka Premier League (LPL).

Vijayakanth had to remain patient during his first two seasons, being constantly in the shadow of Wanindu Hasaranga, but following the departure of the senior player this season, the 21-year-old from Jaffna Central College gleefully grabbed his opportunity. Offering variety and control with his leg-breaks, he put up a good show at this year’s tournament bagging 13 wickets at an average of 14.61. He was also crowned as the ‘emerging player’. “Coming into this year’s tournament, we missed the services of few top players, especially Wanindu Hasaranga, a player who is difficult to replace.

But Vijayakanth Viyasakanth grabbed his opportunity and did tremendously well throughout the tournament,” said Jaffna Kings head coach Thilina Kandamby.  “I believe Wanindu’s departure was a blessing for Viyaskanth in one way, where his performance was highlighted,” Kandamby added further.     

Jaffna Kings created history when they clinched the LPL title for the third year in a row, defeating Colombo Stars by two wickets in a thrilling final. Colombo Stars made 163/5 in 20 overs before Jaffna Kings chased down the target in 19.2 overs in the final . Set to chase 164, Kings finished the game in the last over of the match to register a dramatic victory. Avishka Fernando and Sadeera Samarawickrama led from the front to ensure Kings retained the title. On the flip side, Colombo Stars came close with their fiery bowling towards the end, but ultimately fell short. 

“It was a huge challenge and expectations were very high, especially since we were the defending champions, but the players absorbed the pressure and played well, and I believe that is the reason we ended on the winning side,” said Kandamby.  “I started my coaching career from school level. For example, I have seen Dunith Wellalage since he was 12-13 years old, and I knew someday when I go forward it is players like him who will be on top, and that helped me a lot in managing them.”

Commenting on the experienced player of their side, Pakistan star Shoaib Malik, Kandamby went onto say: “We were not only expecting a batter’s role from Shoaib Malik; even I learnt from him. Youngsters have a lot to learn from him. Even at team meetings he used to speak more than me sometimes. He was an added value to the team.”