TRAU triumph in tense final to claim Luwangpokpa T20 crown
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 03 2025: TRAU (Kwakeithel) laboured to a narrow 3-run win over CYCLONE (Thangmeiband) to clinch the 5th MNCA Luwangpokpa T-20 Trophy 2024-25 at Moijing Public Ground, Thoubal, on Thursday.

Opting to field first after winning the toss, CYCLONE'S decision seemed justified in the early stages, but a spirited batting display from TRAU propelled them to a competitive total of 171 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Pukhrambam Prafullomani Singh laid the foundation with a rapid 49 off just 25 balls, smashing five boundaries and four sixes at a strike rate of 196.Skipper Priyojit Kangabam anchored the innings with a composed 58 off 40 deliveries, while Huiningshumbam Luching added a valuable 20.Despite regular breakthroughs by CYCLONE's bowlers - particularly Kishan Laishram (2/12) and Reolin Oinam (2/22) - TRAU managed to post a strong target.

Cyclone's fielding, however, was hampered by 15 wides and a no-ball, conceding 21 extras in total.

In reply, CYCLONE's chase began shakily with early wickets falling in quick succession.

TRAU's disciplined bowling, spearheaded by Somorjit Salam's outstanding spell of 3 for 23, kept the opposition in check.

Puinachandra Sharma also chipped in with two wickets, dismissing the dangerous Md Aqeel (62 off 39), who was the mainstay of CYCLONE's innings.

Abdul Kasim added a fighting 19, but no other batter could build a substantial partnership.

Needing 4 runs off the final ball, CYCLONE fell agonisingly short, finishing on 168 for 7 .

The thrilling finish had spectators on the edge of their seats, with TRAU holding their nerve under immense pressure to secure a memofable win.

With this hard-fought victory, TRAU took home Rs 75,000, while CYCLONE received Rs 50,000.Priyojit Kangabam was named player of the match in the final for his impressive 58 -run knock off 40 balls and a wicket.

Kishan Laishram claimed both the highest wicket taker (14 wickets in 6 innings) and player of the series titles, earning a total of Rs 7,500 in cash prizes along with two trophies.

The highest run scorer award went to Priyojit Kh, who accumulated 220 runs in five innings.

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