Loliem Tigers clinched the 1st Chetan Manju Desai Leatherball T-20 Cricket Tournament title with a hard-fought 9-run victory over Young Maratha in a thrilling final played under floodlights at the GCA Cricket Ground, Mashem.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Loliem Tigers were bowled out for 103 on the final ball of their 20 overs. In reply, Young Maratha fell short despite a determined chase, finishing at 94/9 in their allotted overs.
Saiesh Naik Gaonkar top-scored for Young Maratha with 26 runs off 23 balls, including two sixes and two boundaries. For Loliem Tigers, Yash Prabhugaonkar contributed a quick 25 off 16 balls, while Vinesh Satarkar, who was named Player of the Final, added a crucial 20 runs.
Manish Nik Gaunkar was the pick of the bowlers for Young Maratha with three wickets. However, Loliem Tigers’ bowlers held their nerve, with Raj Badekar and Animesh Prabhu taking two wickets each to restrict the opposition and seal the win.
Loliem Tigers lifted the winners’ trophy along with a cash prize of ₹2 lakh.
Earlier, the teams were introduced to Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao and Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa, in the presence of Chetan Manju Desai.
