Chathe XI clinch first Nagaland Cricket Association Women’s Champion’s Trophy

Our Reporter
Dimapur, July 5 (EMN): Chathe XI won the first ever Nagaland Cricket Association Women’s Champion’s Trophy with a 30 run victory over Doyang XI in the finals at Sovima Cricket Ground on Tuesday.

Scoring a decent target of 95 runs in the scoreboard, Chathe XI bowlers managed to keep Doyang XI’s run rate at 3.20 per over, while Talirenla Pongen of Doyang XI was the only player to score double digits, 29 runs off 39 balls.

While Talirenla Pongen was on the pitch, the match was still 50/50 but with Pongen dismissed by Leg before wicket (LBW) in the 12^th over, Doyang XI could not manage to keep the run rate on track and with falling wickets at regular intervals, Chathe XI ballers capitalised on the match and won by 30 runs.

In the final match, Chathe XI opted to bat after winning the toss, and set a target of 95 runs in the scoreboard with a loss of five wickets in 20 overs. Chathe XI captain, Soyimkumla Tsudir led from the front with a superlative all-round performance to steer the team to victory with a contribution of 15 runs off 22 balls and taking two wickets in three overs with one maiden over. Illuneule was the highest scorer with 22 runs off 40 balls for Chathe XI.

The best batter of the tournament was awarded to Sariba Khan of Dikhu XI for scoring 154 runs, while Alamlie of Chathe XI was declared as the best bowler with a hold of 10 wickets; Illuneule of Chathe XI was adjusted as the best keeper and Elina Muru of Tizu XI was adjusted as the player of the tournament.

In the tournament, a total of 96 players participated in eight teams with 12 players each.

Speaking during the occasion as special guest, Additional Deputy Commissioner of {olice Chümoukedima, Tokavi Achumi said that organising Women’s Champion’s Trophy is another feather for the Nagaland Cricket Association’s cap.

‘Cricket is a very important sport and it is the most driving industry, but when it comes to women cricket, it is still picking up at the national level as well; and now it is for the young Naga girls to take interest in the game and try to shine in the sport.

‘As a Naga, this is not their traditional sport and they have been reluctant for too long. Moreover, the girls were not encouraged to play cricket or any sports and have been deprived in this line of sports,’ he said.

However, Achumi appreciated the NCA for giving a platform to Naga women so that they can explore the potential they may have. He said they were going to be the pioneers of women cricket in Nagaland and added that the most important thing for a sports person is to be disciplined.

Achumi said that sincerity, perseverance, patience and discipline would lead to success and added that this tournament is just the beginning.