Match 1: Friendship CC vs Fighters CC (BGA) - August 15, 2024

The encounter between Friendship CC and Fighters CC (BGA) at the Santarém Cricket Ground was a one-sided affair dominated by Fighters CC. Friendship CC won the toss and elected to bat first, hoping to set a competitive total. However, their innings never really took off as they struggled against a disciplined bowling attack from Fighters CC.

Friendship CC’s opening batsman, Asad, managed only 6 runs before being dismissed by Mandeep Singh in the very first over. Captain Imtiaz Ahmed Rana was the lone warrior for Friendship CC, scoring a well-compiled 67 off 46 balls, including seven boundaries and a six. His efforts were supported by a quickfire 30 from Iftekharul Islam, but the rest of the batting lineup crumbled around them. The lower order offered little resistance, with three batsmen dismissed for ducks. Friendship CC was eventually bowled out for 143 in 19.1 overs.

Mandeep Mall was the pick of the bowlers for Fighters CC, claiming three wickets for 25 runs. Deep Karthol also played a crucial role, taking two wickets for just 14 runs in his four overs, applying constant pressure on the Friendship CC batsmen.

Chasing a modest target of 144, Fighters CC openers Dalwinder Gullu and Mandeep Singh made light work of the Friendship CC bowling attack. Dalwinder Gullu was in imperious form, smashing an unbeaten 89 off just 40 deliveries, including 11 fours and four sixes. His aggressive batting, combined with Mandeep Singh’s solid 44 not out off 30 balls, saw Fighters CC cruise to victory in just 11.3 overs without losing a wicket. The partnership between Gullu and Singh was a masterclass in T20 batting, blending power with precision.

Fighters CC (BGA) won the match convincingly by 10 wickets, underlining their dominance in all facets of the game. This comprehensive victory not only showcased their superior batting firepower but also highlighted the significant gap between the two teams on the day.

Match 2: Malo CC vs Lisbon Capitals CC - August 15, 2024

In the second match of the day, Malo CC took on Lisbon Capitals CC, also at the Santarém Cricket Ground. Malo CC won the toss and opted to bat first, aiming to put up a strong total. However, their innings got off to a shaky start as both openers, including captain Mian Mehmood Shahid, were dismissed early with just 12 runs on the board.

Muhammad Adnan tried to stabilize the innings with a brisk 48 off 34 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes. Despite his efforts, Malo CC kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Amir Zaib and Muhammad Usama made small contributions, but it was Shamsher Singh who provided a late flourish with a quickfire 33 off 16 balls, propelling Malo CC to a total of 155 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs.

Lisbon Capitals’ bowling was effective, with Muhammad Usama leading the way by taking two wickets for just 11 runs in his four overs. Sunilkumar Patel also chipped in with a wicket while maintaining an economy rate of 5 runs per over.

In response, Lisbon Capitals CC started their chase confidently, with Amir Dar anchoring the innings. Dar played a match-winning knock of 58 off 44 balls, keeping the innings together as the Capitals lost a few quick wickets. Danish LCC contributed 9 runs before being dismissed, and there was a brief stutter in the middle order, but Lisbon Capitals remained in control thanks to Dar’s composure.

In the end, it was Shamsher Singh who played a crucial cameo, scoring 33 off just 16 deliveries to ensure that Lisbon Capitals reached the target comfortably with 5 wickets in hand and 8 balls to spare. Malo CC’s bowlers tried their best, with Najam Shahzad and Muhammad Usama taking key wickets, but they couldn’t prevent Lisbon Capitals from marching to victory.

Lisbon Capitals’ win by 5 wickets was a testament to their balanced team performance, with contributions from both bat and ball. They successfully chased down a challenging target, showing their depth in batting and the ability to handle pressure situations.

Conclusion

The day belonged to Fighters CC (BGA) and Lisbon Capitals CC, who both secured victories in contrasting styles. Fighters CC’s emphatic win showcased their batting dominance, while Lisbon Capitals’ chase highlighted their resilience and depth. The results of these matches have set the stage for an exciting continuation of the tournament, with both winning teams proving their credentials as strong contenders.