SS Nalanda Edge Past TNM Cricket Academy by 3 Runs in Semi-Final Thriller
SS Nalanda Edge Past TNM Cricket Academy by 3 Runs in Semi-Final Thriller
LSKCM T20 Trophy: Semifinal 1: TNM Cricket Academy vs SS Nalanda. Player of the Match: Gaurav Tomer, 64(28)
In one of the most nail-biting encounters of the tournament so far, SS Nalanda held their nerve to clinch a 3-run win over TNM Cricket Academy in the semi-final showdown. It was a game filled with fireworks, momentum swings, and edge-of-the-seat drama, with both teams scoring over 200. But it was Gaurav Tomer’s blistering 64 and a tight final over that booked SS Nalanda a place in the final.
SS Nalanda’s Innings: Tomer Unleashes Mayhem
Batting first, SS Nalanda put up an explosive performance, racking up 208/7 in their 20 overs at a rapid 10.4 RPO. After losing Deepak Punia early, the top order stabilized thanks to contributions from Himanshu Rana (30 off 20) and Avneesh Sudha (37 off 24).
But it was Gaurav Tomer who stole the show. Walking in with the score under pressure, he played a brutal knock of 64 off just 28 balls, launching 6 sixes and smashing the bowlers to every corner of the park. He got excellent support from Luv Bhudhwar, who chipped in with a fiery 38 off 23*, finishing the innings on a high.
TNM Cricket Academy’s Chase: Siddharth’s Storm Almost Does It
Chasing a mammoth 209, TNM came out with intent. Inzimam continued his great form, blasting 55 off 30 balls, while Shantanu (10 off 4) gave an explosive cameo at the top. But it was Siddharth Yadav who turned the game on its head with an unbelievable 74 off just 29 balls, striking 10 boundaries and 3 sixes.
With the required run rate climbing, TNM kept pace and looked well in control. However, Deepak Punia’s timely wickets and a few dot balls in the final overs swung the pendulum back toward SS Nalanda. Despite a valiant finishing effort by Kavya (31 off 29)* and *Kartik Yadav (21 off 18)**, TNM fell agonizingly short by just 3 runs, finishing at 205/4.
This semi-final had everything: powerful hitting, pressure-packed overs, a thrilling chase, and a match that went right down to the wire. SS Nalanda advanced to the final after an absolute cracker of a game, while TNM Cricket Academy bow out with their heads held high.
In a match separated by inches, it was Tomer’s bat and Punia’s clutch bowling that made the difference. All eyes now turn to the grand finale!