It all happened in the fourth over of the game when Nuwanido Fernando smashed a fuller delivery bowled by Carlos Brathwaite outside off over covers. Karunaratne ran back from cover to take an over-the-shoulder catch, but the ball was hit on the face as it came down, dislodging several teeth.
Karunaratne was then immediately taken to the hospital, where he underwent surgery. He is understood to have lost four teeth in his lower frontal jaw and sustained lacerations on his lower lip and gums.
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Speaking about the game, the Falcons registered a comfortable victory in the match, successfully chasing down the target of 122 set by Gladiators in just 15 overs with the loss of five wickets. Kamindu Mendis (44) was the top-scorer for the Falcons, hitting 4 fours and two sixes after openers Pathum Nissanka and Andre Fletcher gave a flying start.
Nissanka scored 22 runs off 21 balls with the help of three fours, and a six and Fletcher made 20 runs off just 14 balls, including three fours and a six. Brathwaite shone with the ball for them, taking four wickets in four overs after giving away just 14 runs, including a maiden over. Brathwaite was adjudged with the ‘Man of the Match’ title.
“Pitch was good for seam bowling, and I kept it simple. Tried to bring the edge into play. Happy with opening the bowling. Fletcher has been apologising, no one drops catches on purpose. LPL has been amazing, good vibes so far,” said Brathwaite after the match.
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