- Shamser Khalid
Snake Enters Field, Interrupted LPL Match
The Lanka Premier League (LPL) encounter between the Dambulla Giants and the Galle Titans on July 31, Monday, will be remembered for more than just thrilling cricket action. As the teams battled it out in a crucial group stage match, an unexpected and rather unorthodox player decided to join in – a Black Mamba snake had entered the field, interrupting the LPL match and surprising players and spectators alike.
The match was progressing with excitement as premier all-rounder Shakib al Hasan was getting ready to bowl the fifth over of the second innings. Suddenly, the stadium's attention shifted when a snake was spotted slithering near the boundary ropes. Recognizing the potential danger it posed, the match officials promptly suspended play, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
The ground staff, along with an umpire, took charge of the situation, carefully approaching the Black Mamba to remove it from the ground. It was evident that the presence of such a venomous snake raised concerns for players, officials, and fans alike. Despite the unexpected interruption, the management handled the situation efficiently by calling wildlife and rescue teams to safely relocate the reptile away from the stadium.
While the snake's appearance may have disrupted the cricketing action temporarily, it also provided a unique and entertaining moment that caught the attention of the cricketing world. The LPL's official Twitter account shared a video of the incident, humorously stating, "Even the Sri Lankan wildlife can't resist the action at the LPL." Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris chimed in on social media, expressing his astonishment by tweeting, "I've seen it all now! Snake stops play!"
Once the snake had been safely taken away, the game resumed, and the players got back to the task at hand. It was a match of immense significance for both teams, vying for a spot in the playoffs of the prestigious LPL. The Galle Titans, undeterred by the momentary disruption, showed their mettle and emerged victorious in a nail-biting finish.
Batting first after winning the toss, the Galle Titans had a shaky start when they lost opener Lasith Croospulle early in the innings. However, Shevon Daniel and Bhanuka Rajapaksa steadied the ship with an aggressive approach during the powerplay overs. By the end of the sixth over, they had amassed 55 runs for the loss of just one wicket, setting the foundation for a competitive total.
Chasing the target, the Dambulla Giants put up a spirited fight, but the Titans' bowlers remained relentless in their pursuit of wickets. The match reached a thrilling climax as both teams fought tooth and nail till the last ball. However, the Titans held their nerve in the Super Over, clinching victory by a mere two wickets, cementing their place as one of the top contenders in the tournament.
In the aftermath of the thrilling match, the organizers of the LPL took special measures to ensure that such wildlife interruptions would be prevented in the future. They collaborated with local wildlife authorities to implement strategies for keeping the stadium premises secure from any potential intrusions by animals or reptiles.
