Harnandi Gladiators edge past Vaishali Jaguars in a thriller, win by 3 wickets

GBT20 League: Harnandi Gladiators edge past Vaishali Jaguars in a thriller, win by 3 wickets

GBT20 League: Harnandi Gladiators pulled off a tense run-chase to beat Vaishali Jaguars by 3 wickets in a high-pressure match. Chasing 162 for victory, the Gladiators kept losing wickets at intervals but held their nerve to get over the line with four balls to spare.

Vaishali Jaguars’ innings:

Batting first, Vaishali Jaguars put up a competitive 161/10 in 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Rishabh Dral, who played a superb knock of 80 off 52 balls, smashing 8 fours and 5 sixes. He found solid support from Manjeet, who scored a quick 35 off 21 to give the team a flying start.

However, once the openers departed, the Jaguars lost momentum. Subodh Bhatis was outstanding with the ball, finishing with 5/34, breaking the back of their middle and lower order. Despite Rishabh’s heroics, the Jaguars ended slightly below par considering their start.

Gladiators’ chase:

In reply, Harnandi Gladiators began positively, with Naman Sharma (26 off 16) and Ayushh Tyaagi (19 off 17) giving the team a brisk start. The chase wobbled in the middle as quick wickets fell, leaving pressure on the middle order.

But Puneet Mehra rose to the occasion, playing a match-winning knock of 60 not out off 42 balls, holding the innings together with his calm yet powerful batting. Cameos from Prashant Gurjar (13 off 11) and Akash Tomar (13 off 8) ensured the momentum stayed with Gladiators.

Despite some disciplined bowling from Sunil Kumar Dalal (2/23) and Vineet Kumar (2/27), the Jaguars couldn’t stop Gladiators from reaching the target.