Bangladesh batter Tawhid Hridoy struck a 20-ball half-century – the fastest fifty in the Lanka Premier League (LPL) this year – to help Jaffna Kings beat Galle Gallant by 12 runs in the qualifier in Colombo on Wednesday and book a place in the final.

Hridoy hit five sixes – including a 101-metre hit – and three fours to remain unbeaten on 54 off just 21 balls.

His innings added the late flourish but it was opener Kamil Mishara’s mounting 108 not out off 55 balls that powered Jaffna to 242-2 in their 20 overs – the highest team total in the history of the tournament.

In reply, Galle also put up a valiant fight but could not topple the score, finishing on 228-8 in their 20 overs.

Local pacer Mohamed Shiraz was the star player, picking up 3-32 while South Africa’s Lizaad Williams also picked up a couple of wickets.

With the win, Jaffna are set to play the final for the fifth final in six editions – having won all four of their previous finals.

Galle will get another bite at the cherry, as they will face the winner of Thursday’s eliminator between Colombo Kaps and Kandy Royals in Friday’s second qualifier.

The final will take place in Colombo on Saturday.