The University of Kelaniya scripted a memorable comeback to top-tier university cricket by sealing a place in the XV SLUG 2025 Cricket Semi-Finals, ending an eight-year drought in style with a commanding 4-wicket victory over the University of Jaffna on August 2, 2025, at the University of Kelaniya Ground.

Electing to bat first, University of Jaffna posted a total of 208 runs in 47.5 overs, courtesy of fighting batting performances from Ashmika Iddamalgoda (39 off 79) and skipper Devdas Sherophan (52 off 67).

However, the University of Kelaniya bowlers were clinical throughout the innings. The trio of Kamesh Mallawaarachchi (3/28), Jithesh Wasala (3/32), and Chamath Chathurya (3/50) dismantled the Jaffna batting line-up with relentless pressure and precision.

Chasing 209 for victory, the University of Kelaniya got off to a dream start as opener Randula Samarahewa unleashed a blistering assault on the opposition, smashing 66 runs off just 29 balls, setting the tone for the chase. Despite a mid-innings fightback led by Antony Desvin, who took 4 wickets for 61 runs, Kelaniya stayed composed. Binaru Ranasinghe (49 off 74) and Jithesh Wasala (40 off 53) guided the team home with a steady partnership, sealing the win in 39.1 overs with four wickets in hand.

This win not only marked Kelaniya’s return to the SLUG cricket semi-finals after nearly a decade, but also underlined the depth and balance of their squad.