Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: K.K. Strikers delivered a fitting tribute to KK with a commanding four wicket victory over Ultracon Madgaon Royals in a high intensity league encounter of the GSB Unity Cup 3.0 at the MCC Ground, Margao. The match produced strong individual performances and a tense finish, keeping spectators engaged until the final overs.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Ultracon Madgaon Royals put up a challenging total of 174 for 7 from their 20 overs. Captain Damodar Pai Patnekar played a steady anchoring role, scoring 40 runs to stabilise the innings. The momentum was lifted by Showmik Angle, who played a powerful knock of 53 from just 26 deliveries, striking five sixes and two boundaries to put pressure on the bowling attack. Granthik Buyao added valuable runs at the death, remaining unbeaten on 32 to ensure the Royals crossed the 170 mark. Among the Strikers’ bowlers, Akshay Dalvi stood out with figures of 3 for 30, while Ramnath Prabhu Bam provided crucial support by picking up two wickets.
Chasing 175, K.K. Strikers began their innings with confidence and intent. Opener Aditya Dalal set the tempo early, scoring a fluent 38 off 21 balls to give his side a strong platform. Pratosh Pilgaonkar contributed a useful 30, maintaining the scoring rate through the middle overs. Captain Nikit Naik Dalal added composure to the chase with a solid 28, ensuring the innings remained on track despite regular breakthroughs.
The closing stages saw calm heads prevail as Ramnath Prabhu Bam and Kaushik Pai Fondekar guided the Strikers home with unbeaten knocks of 8 and 12 respectively, sealing victory in 19.1 overs. For Ultracon Madgaon Royals, Kartik Hattangdi and Granthik Buyao claimed two wickets each in an effort to stall the chase.
Akshay Dalvi was named Man of the Match for his decisive all round contribution, while Aditya Dalal earned the Hero of the Match award for his impactful start that laid the foundation for the win.
