KCC upstage KASC to qualify for Superplate Toumament semis
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, April 25 2023:
KCC enjoyed an emphatic seven-wicket win over KASC to ensure their place in the semifinals of the MNCA Superplate Tournament.
With the win, KCC finished second in Group B although they were level on 12 points with group winners ESU, who edged the former at the top by virtue of better NRR.
KCC bowled out KASC for 125 in 29.3 overs as Singthoi Nandeibam turned out to be the chief destroyer with an impressive haul of six wickets in his lethal 5.3-over spell.
Also who made his mark with the ball for KCC was Wahengbam Somorjit who claimed three scalps, with Yumnam Sheiteendra taking one.
Double-digit scores by Prinobata Thokchom (28), Md Ali Karim (22), WM Rajak (19) and Bm Irfan (16) helped cross the 100-mark in their poor innings.
After their terrific bowling display, KCC took 24.3 overs to eclipse KASC's total, losing three wickets in the process.
It wasn't entirely smooth sailing for KCC at first as their openers combined made just 22 runs with Keisham Mranojit scoring 21 and partner Ningombam Tony getting 1.However, Nongmaithem Dijaraj, who came in at No 3, ably took charge of the task as he remained unbeaten at the crease till the end, scoring 53, to help KCC to a crucial victory that propelled them to the semifinals, Nameirakpam Arbin also made significant contribution in their triumph with a fine knock of 42 as Kisan Wahengbam was unbeaten on 4.For KASC, Md Babu, Qurshid Alam and Md Ali Karim took one wicket each.
Singthoi Nandeibam, who dazzled with six scalps, claimed the man of the match accolade.
KCC will now face Group A winners PTCC while Group B winners ESU will clash with Group A runners-up KSDO in the semifinals.
CDCC and PSC have been relegated.