MARGAO
The Sarsangan Commonwealth Developers +45 Veterans Cricket Series 2025 witnessed an action-packed day at the Arlem Cricket Ground, with Mapusa Dream Crushers storming into the finals after a commanding win over Govindraj Legends, while Pai & Khot Fighters concluded their campaign on a winning note with a consolation victory in the final league match.
In the morning encounter, Mapusa Dream Crushers produced a clinical all-round performance to defeat Govindraj Legends by seven wickets and secure their place in the finals. Batting first, Govindraj Legends posted a competitive 161 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs, led by Siddhesh Bodke’s aggressive 36 off 16 balls. He received valuable support from Mahendra Pai Kuchelkar (34), Rajendra Prabhudesai (29) and Balkrishna Hodarkar (18).
For the Dream Crushers, Parai Dubhashi (2/16) and Samrudh Hegde Desai (2/25) were the standout bowlers, while Prasad Bhende (1/8), Vibhav Pai (1/17) and Mahesh Churi (1/31) also chipped in.
Chasing a target of 162, the Dream Crushers batted with composure and confidence. Rajesh Colvalcar (24), Anant Chodnekar (30), Rupesh Kossambe (36) and Siddesh Desai (36) laid a solid foundation before Vibhav Pai sealed the chase with an unbeaten 16, guiding the team to 162 for 3 in 17.4 overs. Sudin Kamat, Balkrishna Hodarkar and Balkrishna Kamat picked up a wicket each for Govindraj Legends.
At the prize distribution ceremony, Nagnath Shanbhag was present as the guest. Rupesh Kossambe was named the Man of the Match, while Siddesh Desai (Best Batter), Parai Dubhashi (Best Bowler), Siddhesh Bodke (Super Striker) and Vibhav Pai (Impact Player) were also honoured.
In the afternoon fixture, Pai & Khot Fighters ended their tournament with a convincing 52-run victory over Salcete Stallions. Batting first, the Fighters posted 170 for 7, built around solid contributions from Sandeep Thali (35), Avinash Kossambe (29), Ashutosh Pai Angle (21) and Shiraj Pai Khot (20). For the Stallions, Siddesh Pai (3/19) and Parinda Pai Kane (2/25) were the pick of the bowlers, while Ganesh Vernekar and Sarvesh Kamat claimed one wicket each.
In response, the Stallions failed to build momentum and were bowled out for 118, with Sarvesh Kamat (38) being the lone resistance. Raju Salgaonkar led the bowling charge with figures of 3 for 22, well supported by Ramchandra Prabhu (2/2), Shiraj Pai Khot (2/16) and Rasik Pai Khot (1/10). Despite the bonus-point win, the Fighters narrowly missed out on a finals berth.
Amogh Namshiker attended the prize distribution ceremony, where Raju Salgaonkar was adjudged the Man of the Match. Sandeep Thali (Best Batter), Siddesh Pai (Best Bowler), Sarvesh Kamat (Super Striker) and Shiraj Pai Khot (Impact Player) also received awards.
The third-place play-off and the final of the Sarsangan Commonwealth Developers +45 Veterans Cricket Series 2025 will be played on Saturday.
