Jammu and Kashmir triumphed over Mumbai by 16 runs in a thrilling opening league match of the 53rd KVS National Sports Meet Cricket Tournament (Under-17), held at Sage Cricket Ground, Lucknow today. The tournament, featuring 23 teams from across the country, take place from September 30 (today) to October 6.
Batting first, Jammu and Kashmir posted a competitive total of 107 runs in the allotted 12 overs, losing only four wickets. Wicketkeeper-batsman Vinit Rana led the charge with an explosive 41 off 22 balls, including seven boundaries and one towering six. His aggressive innings set the platform for a strong total. Somesh also played a crucial role, contributing 27 runs unbeaten off just 12 deliveries, smashing two fours and two sixes to further boost the team’s score.
In reply, Mumbai faltered in their chase, managing 91 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their 12 overs. Jammu and Kashmir’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Nirbhay Khajuria, whose exceptional spell of 4 wickets for 15 runs in three overs dismantled Mumbai’s batting lineup. His precise bowling, combined with tight support from Somesh and Harsh, who took two wickets each, kept the Mumbai batters in check throughout the innings.
Despite efforts from Mumbai’s batsmen, they failed to build momentum and consistently lost wickets at crucial intervals. For his all-round contribution, Somesh was named the Man of the Match, having contributed both with the bat and the ball. This victory marks a strong start for Jammu and Kashmir in the tournament as they aim to make a deep run in the competition.
Nirbhay’s sensational bowling leads J&K to 16-run victory over Mumbai
