CRICKET – THE Abraj Violets edged past the Abraj Daredevils with a two-wicket win, clinching victory in the final over in a closely fought match of week eight in the Mega Abraj Premier League (APL5).
After winning the toss, the Violets opted to field first. The Daredevils capitalised on the opportunity to bat, posting a competitive total of 179/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
Despite losing early wickets, a composed 33 off 25 balls by Vinay Gupta and a crucial unbeaten 29 off 20 by Viral Desai helped stabilise the innings. Contributions from Stany Fernandes (27 off 17) and Hatim Azad’s quickfire 13 off six balls ensured the Daredevils had a strong finish.
The Violets’ bowlers shone in patches, with Rahul Dantkale delivering a disciplined spell of two overs, conceding 14 runs while claiming a wicket. Ashwani Bhatia provided key breakthroughs, picking up two wickets for 24 runs in his three overs.
In response, the Violets’ chase started shakily, losing early wickets and finding themselves at 38/5 in the sixth over. However, Mishal Soni and Bhatia delivered performances for the ages, showcasing tremendous composure and class under pressure. Soni’s majestic 56 not out off just 27 balls (five fours, two sixes) was a true display of power hitting and finesse.
Bhatia, with his calm and calculated 47 off 32 balls (two fours, two sixes), provided the perfect foil to Soni’s aggression, holding the innings together when it mattered most.
Together, the duo stitched a game-changing partnership, turning the tide against a determined Daredevils attack. Hari Krishna’s brisk 31 off 18 also contributed significantly to the chase. The Daredevils bowlers fought valiantly, with Azad making his mark, claiming three wickets for just four runs in a spell that will be remembered for its precision. Dinesh Abraj chipped in with two wickets, but their efforts weren’t enough to contain the Violets’ inspired middle order.
With two balls to spare, the Violets clinched the match, finishing at 180/8 in 19.4 overs.
Bhatia’s all-round brilliance, with two wickets and a composed unbeaten 47 in a pressure chase, earned him the Player of the Match award.
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