Dambulla Viiking kick-started the 2020 Lanka Premier League campaign with a 4-run victory against Kandy Tuskers in a rain-affected game in Hambantota.

Tuskers chasing 196 to win their first match of the tournament were on 84 for 3 in 9.4 overs when rain interrupted proceedings.

According to the Duckworth and Lewis method, the Kusal Janith Perera-led team was five runs short of the 89-run target. Kusal Mendis remained unbeaten on 34 off 26 deliveries while Asela Gunaratne was on 3 when the game was interrupted.

Earlier in the afternoon, Dambulla Viiking batting first scored 195 for 4 with skipper Dasun Shanaka making a 37-ball 73.

Englishman Samit Patel notched up 58 off 38 balls while Niroshan Dickwella at the top hit 25 off 18 deliveries. For the Tuskers Naveen-ul-Haq and Asela Gunaratne picked up two wickets apiece.

Meanwhile, in today’s second game Colombo Kings will take on Galle Gladiators at the same venue.