PANAJI
In a thrilling finish at the MCC, Margao, the VMCL Hustlers emerged victorious by just two runs over the VMCL Scorpions in the final of the Ferdinand Coelho Memorial VMCL-3, a 20-over contest played on Friday night.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, the Hustlers posted a challenging total of 139/9 in their 20 overs. Venkatesh Nevagi (37 off 34 balls) and Sachin Kenkre (35 off 32 balls) were the top scorers, anchoring the innings despite early setbacks. The Scorpions' bowlers, led by Anil Mashelkar and Dr Satyesh Kamat, both of whom claimed two wickets, kept the pressure on, but the Hustlers managed to recover through the middle overs before quick wickets halted their progress.
In reply, the Scorpions fought valiantly but fell agonisingly short, finishing at 137/9. Nilesh Prabhudesai (33 off 30 balls) and Iftikar Agha (20 off 29 balls) tried to stabilise the chase, while Mahesh Kudchadkar (35 off 25 balls) provided a late surge.
However, tight bowling from the Hustlers, particularly Sachin Kenkre, who claimed 3 wickets for 21 runs, kept the Scorpions under pressure. Raghuvir Kuncolienkar’s early breakthroughs and Kenkre’s key late strikes sealed the victory. The Scorpions needed 3 runs off the final ball, but a wicket by Kenkre ended their hopes.
The match saw four run-outs, disciplined death-overs bowling, and costly extras, with the Scorpions conceding six extras and the Hustlers 13. Despite the close finish, the Hustlers held their nerve to claim the title.
Sachin Kenkre was named Man of the Match for his all-round brilliance. Vicky Nevagi won Best Batsman of the Tournament, while Satyesh Kamat was honoured with both Best Bowler and Man of the Series awards. Mahesh Kudchadkar was awarded Hero of the Match for his blistering knock.
President Yogesh Naik and the committee members distributed the prizes.
