Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Shree Damodar Vidyalaya High School delivered a dominant performance to secure the South Zone title in the Under-14 President’s Cup cricket tournament, registering an emphatic eight-wicket win over St. Joseph High School, Mormugao. The final was played at the MCC Ground in Margao on Saturday.
After opting to bat, St. Joseph High School struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 124 runs in 24.3 overs. Gandhik Satardekar top-scored with 27 runs, while Aarav Kerkar added 16. Despite brief contributions, the batting side failed to form lasting partnerships, losing wickets at regular intervals. Extras also contributed to pushing their total past the 120 mark.
The highlight of the innings was an exceptional bowling spell from Mohammad Ehtesham, who turned the game decisively in his team’s favour. He picked up five wickets, including a remarkable hat-trick, conceding just 12 runs in 4.3 overs. His impactful spell dismantled the opposition’s middle order. Abhisek Lamani and captain Rumaan Mulam provided strong support, claiming two wickets each to keep the pressure firmly on the batting side.
Chasing a modest target, Shree Damodar Vidyalaya approached the task with confidence and composure. Openers Usman Ghani scored a steady 30, while Abhiyan chipped in with 15, giving the team a solid start. The chase was then anchored by captain Rumaan Mulam, who remained unbeaten on 39, alongside Mohammad Ehtesham, who capped off a stellar all-round performance with an unbeaten 37.
The pair built a crucial third-wicket partnership, guiding their side comfortably to 128 for the loss of just two wickets in 20 overs. For St. Joseph, Pranav was the only bowler to make an impact, taking two wickets.
A complete team effort with both bat and ball ensured Shree Damodar Vidyalaya’s dominance, as they sealed the title in convincing fashion.
