Team Goemkarponn
Margao: Under the floodlights at the MCC ground in Margao, the VMCL Hustlers clinched a thrilling 11-run victory over the VMCL Kings in the Ferdinand Coelho Memorial MCC VMCL-3 Super League encounter. The match saw momentum shift throughout, but it was the Hustlers who held their nerve to come out on top.
Opting to field after winning the toss, the Kings hoped to restrict the Hustlers early, but the batting side put together a fighting total of 160/8 in 20 overs. Mahendra Pai Kuchelkar laid the foundation with a composed 19, before Venkatesh Nevagi ignited the innings with a blistering 37 off just 18 balls. Contributions from Sachin Kenkre (19), Anoop Borkar (16), and Shailu (13) added vital runs down the order, helping the Hustlers reach a competitive total.
In reply, the Kings were bowled out for 149 in 19.4 overs, falling just 11 runs short. Gurudatt Angle led the resistance with a well-made 35, while Ashish Dukle kept hopes alive with a quickfire 34. However, a flurry of early wickets and a lack of solid partnerships hampered their chase.
The Hustlers’ bowling attack stood out for its discipline and control. Venkatesh Nevagi and Raghuvir Kuncolienkar took two wickets each, with Santosh Lotlikar providing key breakthroughs up front. The finishing touches came from Sachin Kenkre, who dismissed two batsmen in the final overs to seal the win.
Venkatesh Nevagi was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance, scoring 37 and taking two crucial wickets. He received the award from Sagar Shet.
With this win, the VMCL Hustlers demonstrated their all-round strength and moved ahead in the Super League standings. The Kings, despite a spirited fight, were left to rue missed opportunities in what turned out to be a captivating T20 encounter under the lights.
