Beat Dragons by 31 runs in thrilling final to clinch MCL 10 Title
MARGAO
MCC Masters emerged victorious in the 10th edition of the Members Cricket League T-20 tournament, defeating MCC Dragons by 31 runs in a thrilling final held under floodlights at the MCC ground on Sunday.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Dragons restricted Masters to a challenging total of 142 runs for 9 wickets. Masters had a shaky start, losing 3 wickets for just 15 runs within 3.2 overs. However, a crucial 55-run partnership between Balkrishna Hodarkar (33) and Sanjay Netravalkar (27) stabilized the innings. Late fireworks from Siddhesh Prabhu Alvencar (31 off 16 balls, 4 sixes) and Amlon D’Souza (19 not out off 12 balls) propelled Masters to a competitive score.
For Dragons, Om Fadte shone with the ball, picking up 3 wickets for 25 runs, while Sudhir Shet contributed with figures of 2 for 10.
In reply, Dragons struggled to gain momentum during their chase. Openers Mrunmay Das (17 off 24 balls) and Om Fadte (15 off 23 balls) found it difficult to accelerate in the powerplay. Despite a late effort by Aditya Prabhugaonkar (30 not out off 22 balls), the team could only manage 111 for 6 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Angad Painginkar’s three outstanding catches on the boundary line changed the entire scenario, turning the match decisively in Masters’ favor. Masters’ bowling unit, led by Prasad Ghode (2 for 15), and supported by Vikrant Prabhu, Amlon D’Souza, Balkrishna Hodarkar, and Satyesh Kamat, ensured their opponents fell short.
The highlight of the evening was Balkrishna Hodarkar, who was named Player of the Match for his all-round contribution.
The prize distribution ceremony was presided over by Margao MLA Digambar Kamat, who commended the organizers for their efforts in making the tournament one of the premier cricket leagues in Goa. Other dignitaries included MCC President Yogesh Naik, Vice President Sudesh Bhise, and Yogiraj Kamat.
