Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Goa endured a heavy defeat against Punjab, losing by an innings and 296 runs in their Under-23 Colonel C.K. Nayudu Trophy four-day match at the GCA ground in Sanguem on Sunday. Punjab dominated the contest from the outset, declaring their first innings at a commanding 533 for 5. Goa struggled in reply, being bowled out for just 92 in their first innings. Enforcing the follow-on, Punjab sent Goa back to bat, and the hosts were dismissed for 145 in 70.3 overs in their second innings, handing Punjab a comprehensive innings victory.
Anuj Yadav top-scored for Goa with 37 runs, while captain Aryan Narvekar added 32. Bansil Pandya (27) and Rijul Pathak (17) offered minor resistance, but the innings never gained momentum. Punjab’s bowlers led the charge, with Havneet Singh claiming 5 wickets for 25 runs, supported by Harjas Singh Tandon (3/52) and Delove Kumar Goyal (2/15).
The defeat underscores Goa’s ongoing struggles in the tournament as they prepare for their next match against Kerala, scheduled to begin on February 6.
