Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The seventh season of the Advocates Cricket League got underway on Sunday at the SAG ground in Chicalim, with 18 Juners and United Brothers beginning their campaigns with impressive victories in their opening matches. The tournament once again brought together members of the legal fraternity, blending competitive cricket with camaraderie and sportsmanship.
In the opening match of the day, 18 Juners secured a 15 run win over Lotlikar Lions. Batting first, 18 Juners posted 144 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs, with Viraj Tar top scoring with 37 runs, while Abhay Rivonkar and Sahish Mahambrey contributed useful knocks. In reply, Lotlikar Lions were restricted to 129 for 9 despite efforts from Aditya Naik, who scored 29, and Prashant Borkar with 25. Kashinath Posnaik played a key role in the victory, delivering an effective all round performance by scoring 14 runs and claiming three wickets for 25 runs, earning the Man of the Match award.
The second encounter saw United Brothers edge past Lawyer Challengers by three wickets in a closely fought contest. Lawyer Challengers set a target of 149 after scoring 148 for 7, led by Shailesh Redkar’s 51 and Dattaprasad Shirodkar’s 43. United Brothers responded with a composed chase, reaching 149 for 7 in 19.3 overs. Dattaraj Parab anchored the innings with an unbeaten 73 off 49 balls, striking eight boundaries and a six to guide his team home. His match winning knock earned him the Man of the Match honour.
Earlier, the tournament was formally inaugurated with an address outlining the objectives of the league. The ceremony was attended by senior members of the judiciary and legal fraternity, who highlighted the league’s role in promoting fitness, teamwork and fellowship among advocates.
With competitive matches and strong individual performances on display, the opening day set a positive tone for the rest of the Advocates Cricket League season.
