16-06-2024
The only Liga BGA Division I match on June 16, 2024, between Gamblers SC-A and Oeiras CC, provided a thrilling encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end. Played at the Santarém Cricket Ground in Santarém, this match highlighted the competitive spirit and high skill level of both teams.
Match: Gamblers SC-A vs. Oeiras CC
Oeiras CC won the toss and opted to field first. Gamblers SC-A, undeterred, put up an impressive total of 208 for 7 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by a scintillating knock from Kuldeep Gholiya, who smashed 64 off just 36 balls, hitting 12 fours and 1 six. Despite losing his opening partner Mayank Darji early for a duck, Kuldeep continued to attack the bowlers. He was well-supported by Amandeep, who scored a solid 39 off 26 balls, and Mandeep Singh, who added a quickfire 20 off 10 balls. Late contributions from Kamal Sharma (16 not out off 13 balls) and Devender Mehla (24 not out off 11 balls) helped push the total beyond 200. Krishna Neupane was the standout bowler for Oeiras CC, taking 2 wickets for 17 runs in his 2 overs, while Gurjeet Singh and Rahul Kumar each chipped in with a wicket.
In reply, Oeiras CC mounted a valiant chase. Brendan Badehorst led the charge with a phenomenal innings of 93 off 49 balls, featuring 9 fours and 5 sixes, setting a solid foundation for the chase. Despite his efforts, the team faced regular setbacks. Miguel Stoman managed 13 off 14 balls, and captain Conrad Greenshields contributed 18 off 17 balls before being dismissed. The pressure was maintained by Gamblers SC-A's bowlers, particularly Nitin Kamboj, who took 2 crucial wickets for 33 runs. Rahul Kumar's blistering 54 not out off just 24 balls, with 3 fours and 4 sixes, kept Oeiras CC in the hunt until the final over. Aarav Andharia also remained unbeaten with 22 off 17 balls, but the team fell just short, finishing at 204 for 3 in their 20 overs.
The match concluded with Gamblers SC-A securing a narrow 4-run victory, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The tight finish underscored the importance of every run and every wicket in T20 cricket, making this match a memorable encounter in the Liga BGA Division I season.
Conclusion
The closely contested match between Gamblers SC-A and Oeiras CC on June 16, 2024, highlighted the competitive spirit and high skill level in the Liga BGA Division I. Gamblers SC-A's impressive total, backed by strong individual performances, and their ability to hold their nerve in a tight finish, earned them a well-deserved victory. Oeiras CC's spirited chase, led by Brendan Badehorst and Rahul Kumar, added to the excitement, making it a thrilling encounter for the fans. This match not only provided entertainment but also set the stage for more thrilling contests in the league.