Sri Lanka Vs Kenya match gave second hat-tric of ICC World cup 2011

Sri Lanka Vs Kenya

Lasith Malinga, with his fiery spell, annihilated Kenyan batters today as Sri Lanka won the game by 9 wickets. It was an exceptional show by the stalwart fast bowler whose infusion into the team breathed a new life in Sri Lanka. The Kenyans were bundled out for 142 runs and in return Sri Lanka ended the game in 18.4 overs. Lasith Malinga was awarded Man of the match in SL Vs Kenya match for his 6 wickets haul ncluding one hattric. This was the second hat-tric of World cup 2011.

The match started with Kenya taking guard and playing like turtles. It was one of the slowest days in the world cup as Collings Obuya and David Obuya tried to anchor the innings. Eventually they finished with scores of 52 and 51 facing 100 and 106 balls respectively. Their approach seemed very defensive as if they made their minds to play like this today. This predetermined attitude stifled the flow of runs and in a moment they found themselves in their respective shells. Barring these two players there was no contribution whatsoever from anybody.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, came up with a plan and was prompt, aggressive and ruthless in their assault. First ball of the second over of Malinga saw SR Waters going home. It was one of those lethal Yorkers that clumped the stumps. Any batsman would have faltered on this. Later when the Obuyas were going on well, Lasith Malinga produced another wonder Yorker.

And just when you thought it was over, the Kenya scorecard read- 4 wickets in 6 balls. It was a hatrick from Lasith Malinga.  Almost all of them were the sidearm, almost invisible, Yorkers. The hatrick victims were Tanmay Mishra, Peter Ondongo, Shem Ngoche.

In response to the Kenyan paltry total of 142 runs, Sri Lanka completed the chase in 18.4 overs itself. Tharanga and Sangakkara remained unbeaten on 67 and 27 respectively, while Dilshan contributed 44 runs of 30 balls.

It was such a different looking Sri Lankan team today than against Pakistan. Malinga brought an influx of energy to the team and their bowling appeared deadly. No doubt they are one of the favorites to win the world cup this time.

Sri Lanka Vs Kenya match gave second hat-tric of ICC World cup 2011