FCT Shield 2025 – Third Match: CT vs ET

The third match of FCT Shield 2025 served as a dead-rubber encounter, offering both teams an opportunity to test their bench strength ahead of the final. Morning rain once again affected play, reducing the contest to a fast-paced five-over match.

ET won the toss and opted to bowl first. CT opened their innings with Chamod Sapumal and Sanka Yasodana. Early drama came in the very first over when Roshan Tharindu struck, removing Chamod. Undeterred, Sanka Yasodana countered aggressively, sending powerful sixes over the boundary and setting the tone for CT’s innings.

The second wicket fell via a run-out, with Hasitha Kumarathunga dismissed. Captain Loch Arachchige walked in but could not stay until the end. CT concluded their shortened innings at 50 for 4 in five overs, with Sanka Yasodana leading the charge with a quick-fire 23 off 13 balls. Roshan Tharindu, Thimira Gihan, and Chanuka Wijekoon shared the wickets for ET.

Chasing 51 for victory, ET opened with Udeesha Raveeshan and previous-match hero Upekha Serasinghe. The start looked promising, but Yasindu Kalhara broke the opening partnership by dismissing Udeesha. CT’s bowlers then dominated proceedings, restricting ET’s scoring and preventing meaningful partnerships. ET eventually finished at 32 for 4 in their allotted overs, with Upekha Serasinghe top-scoring with 16 off 12 balls.

Captain Loch Arachchige delivered a standout bowling performance, claiming 2 wickets for just 1 run, highlighting his all-round capabilities. CT sealed an 18-run victory, remaining unbeaten in the tournament and heading confidently into the final of the FCT Shield.

Scoreboard: https://fctshield.lk/event/match-3-ct-v-et/