MARGAO
Goa’s wheelchair cricket team finished as runners-up in the Telangana Triangular Wheelchair Cricket Series after a spirited performance in the final under lights in Warangal.
Despite a blistering unbeaten 91 off 51 balls by vice-captain Niklesh Pednekar, Goa fell short in their chase of Telangana’s imposing 234/4, ending at 186/3.
Pednekar emerged as the tournament’s standout performer, amassing 191 runs and earning accolades as Best Batsman and Man of the Match against Gujarat. His contributions with both bat and ball, including a match-winning 70* and several key run-outs, anchored Goa’s campaign.
In the final, Telangana rode on Parashuram’s 98 and Captain Arun John’s 67. Goa’s fielding highlight came from Gauresh Marathe, who pulled off a spectacular catch to dismiss Telangana’s danger man, Shek Monu.
Goa’s journey began with a loss to Telangana but rebounded with a convincing win over Gujarat to book a place in the final. Strong performances from Marathe (49*) and Pednekar (70*) led to a defendable 175/6, followed by disciplined bowling and tight fielding to restrict Gujarat to 150.
Off the pitch, the team faced immense challenges. With no accessible transport options, they endured a 20-hour journey in an ill-equipped vehicle, unable to disembark independently. Yet, they took to the field hours after arrival, bearing their own travel expenses.
Lacking a coach, physio, or financial support from state cricketing bodies, Team Goa relied on self-belief, resilience, and weekly net sessions at Chicalim Ground to prepare.
Captain Stany Dsouza lifted the runner-up trophy with pride, and all-rounder Gauresh Marathe’s selection for India’s Team B capped a remarkable campaign.
Goa's wheelchair cricketers may lack resources”but they don't lack heart.
