10:53pm A collapse of 7 for 42 - Kandy have just slid rapidly in that last eight overs. Udara had once again set the platform with a quick fifty. Once he fell, it was a procession really, resulting in their elimination. This season has been Udara or bust for Kandy. Sandesh was the bright spark at the top of the order in a few games. But the middle order was found wanting time and again, and they couldn't find a saviour today. Perhaps they really lost it with the ball, leaking 30-40 too many. Caps a forgetable season for Kandy captain Mathews, who was again hampered by injuries.

Take nothing away from Colombo, though. They came in clear with an intention of batting the opposition out. The toss went in their favour. Their big-hitters came to the party. McDermott smoked seven sixes and a four in his blitz. Liyanage proved to be the catalyst in the middle phase with a bright cameo. And Neesham provided the perfect finish to help them to a 200-plus score. One that was always going to be tricky in the fourth innings on the same pitch. Presentations, shortly.

Angelo Mathews, Kandy captain: "We have the team. Haven't performed at all. It showed when we were in the middle. We had them by their throats till the ninth over. Then Ben and Jimmy batted well. That's their experience of playing everywhere. Still we thought it was a good wicket, we had nine batters. Can't get all out for 135. Scheduling can better. The turnout was fantastic, even in Kandy. We get a lot of support. Great to have LPL every year, the youngsters get exposure."

Wanuja Sahan is the Player of the Match.

Kamindu Mendis, Colombo captain: "Happy how our players played, especially Ben's innings. Janith did well and Jimmy finished out. Special credit to Wanuja. Our boys put good energy on the field. Binura is back, so I am confident with our bowling attack. Good start for the playoffs."

Rathnayaka