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MARGAO: Vimson Panjim Powerplay secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory over Ultracon Madgaon Royals, at Arlem cricket ground, ending the Royals’ hopes of reaching the semi-finals of Sarsangan Super Series 2024-25.
Opting to bat first in a must-win match, Ultracon Madgaon Royals lost opener Megh Netravalkar for a duck in the first over. Captain Damodar Pai Patnekar (35) and Sarvesh Prabhugaonkar (28) stabilised the innings with a 41-run stand, followed by a crucial 54-run partnership between Damodar and Mahendra Audi (33), taking the score to 98 in the 11th over. However, the lower order collapsed, with six batsmen falling for single-digit scores, as the Royals were bowled out for 144.
For Vimson Panjim Powerplay, Raunak Nargundker and Vardhan Prabhu Misquin claimed two wickets each, while Rasik Pai Khot, Vrushabh Kuncolienkar, Shardul Kenkre, Pranav Kamat, and Anurag Borker picked up one apiece.
To qualify for the semi-finals, the Royals needed to restrict Powerplay to 90 runs. However, their hopes were dashed as Vimson Panjim Powerplay comfortably chased the target, finishing on 145-3 in 16 overs.
Despite losing Mahendra Pai Kuchelkar (9) and Shiraj Pai Khot (17) early, a commanding knock from Vardhan Prabhu Misquin (37), alongside contributions from Rasik Pai Khot (26) and Arsh Sardesai (40), ensured an easy win. Sanket Prabhudesai (6*) and Pranav Kamat (5*) remained unbeaten. Megh Netravalkar (2-21) was the only successful bowler for the Royals.
Individual awards: Man-of-the-Match: Vardhan Prabhu Misquin (Drogaria Colvalcar); Best batter: Arsh Sardesai (Priority Constructions); Best bowler: Raunak Nargundker (Wakao).
