RC Goa storm into PGML 5.0 final

PANAJI

RC Goa stormed into the final of the PGM L 5.0 Cricket Tournament, organized by Panjim Gymkhana, after defeating Baale Tigers by four wickets in Qualifier 1. The final will be played on February 22.

After bowling out Baale Tigers for 117 runs in 19.5 overs, RC Goa chased down the target in 19 overs, losing six wickets. With this defeat, Bale Tigers will now face Priority Titans in Qualifier 2. Priority Titans defeated Manas Mavericks in a thrilling Eliminator via Super Over.

Priority Titans had posted a massive 199 for 5 in 20 overs. In response, Manas Mavericks managed 199 for 9, forcing a Super Over. However, in the Super Over, Manas Mavericks lost both wickets without scoring a run. Priority Titans secured victory by scoring a run off the very first ball. All matches of the tournament are being played at the Panaji Gymkhana ground in Campal, Panaji.

Qualifier 1: RC Goa vs Baale Tigers

The morning session clash between table-toppers RC Goa and second-placed Baale Tigers turned out to be a low-scoring affair. RC Goa won the toss and elected to bowl. Baale Tigers failed to put up a strong batting display, with Samar Dubhashi (33), Lakshay Garg (27), and Dhiraj Fadte (20) offering some resistance.

For RC Goa, Ramnath Gaonkar delivered a fiery spell, taking 4 wickets for just 17 runs.

In reply, RC Goa also lost wickets at regular intervals and were once struggling at 59 for 4 in 12 overs. Ramnath Gaonkar contributed 27 runs with the bat as well. After his dismissal, RC Goa were reduced to 87 for 6. However, in a pressure situation, Gauresh Khandepakar smashed an unbeaten 24 off just 8 balls, including 3 sixes and 1 four, guiding the team to victory with one over to spare.

Eliminator: Priority Titans vs Manas Mavericks

In the second match of the day, Priority Titans, after being invited to bat, piled up 199 for 5 in 20 overs. Opener Adeep Miskin top-scored with 50 runs off 28 balls, while Rijul Pathak added 38 runs. Manas Mavericks matched the total thanks to Avishkar Mone (50), Sairaj Dhond (32), and Pranav Biche (23). However, they faltered in the Super Over.