Zurich Lions registered an authoritative victory against the Geneva XI Stars in their 3rd match of their CSNL campaign. The match witnessed a stellar performance from the ZLCC bowling unit, which laid the foundation for a clean and decisive batting display.
Competition: Cricket Switzerland National League
Draw: CSNL – Round 1
Date & Time: 21st July 2024, 12:30 CET
Venue: Hedingen
Toss: Geneva X1 star won the toss and elected to Bat
Result: Lions won by 9 Wickets
The Geneva X1 Star CC won the toss and opted to bat first under challenging humid conditions. Facing the relentless pace and swing of ZLCC's opening bowlers, Omid and Kanishk, the Geneva X1 Star CC found it tough to put runs on the board.
The opening overs were marked by frequent plays and misses as Kanishk struck in his first over, followed by Omid claiming the second wicket in the 7th over. By the 10th over, the score was 12 runs for the loss of 2 wickets . The pressure did not ease as Osama and Ashwin took over the attack, bowling in tandem with remarkable precision. They continued to apply pressure and secured wickets at regular intervals. The ZLCC bowlers, rotating effectively to cope with the humid conditions, executed their roles magnificently. ZLCC bowlers and fielders were exemplary, seizing every opportunity that came their way. Notably, Kanishk, Najeeb, and Osama each took two catches each, while Akash, Mayank took one, displaying their agility and alertness in the field. Amidst the collapse, Ashish stood firm, providing some resistance and stability to the Geneva X1 Stars' innings. Rehan also attempted to counter-attack but could not sustain the momentum. Ultimately, Geneva X1 Star CC batting line-up faltered, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals. Geneva XI star innings concluded at 86 all out in 21.3 overs.
Ashwin took 4 wickets, while Kanishk, Omid, and Osama each took 2 wickets, showcasing their brilliance with the ball for ZLCC. Ashish scored 24 runs 52 balls, and Rehan contributed 22 runs off 13 balls, standing out as the key batters for the Geneva X1 Stars.
Chasing a modest target under quite humid conditions, the Zurich Lions' openers, Ashwin and Kanishk, approached their task with composure and confidence. Ashwin was dismissed in the 4th over, playing an aggressive shot off Asad Ali when the score was 24. Meanwhile, Kanishk took off with a flurry, showcasing beautiful cover drives and scoops.
Ankush, joining at 3, started cautiously before finding his rhythm and hitting boundaries across the ground. The thick outfield demanded hard running, and both batsmen had to exert themselves in the hot and humid conditions. Their unbeaten partnership of 64 runs blended caution with aggression, keeping the scoreboard ticking.
Ultimately, the Zurich Lions reached the target with ease in 12 overs, sealing the victory with plenty of overs left. The win not only underscored the team's dominance but also highlighted the depth and versatility of the ZLCC team. This commanding performance will undoubtedly boost ZLCC confidence as they continue their CNL campaign, eyeing further successes ahead.
Kanishk led with an all-round performance, scoring 36* and taking two wickets and 2 catches and he was rightly awarded Man of the Match for his exceptional display on the field.
Senthil on behalf of ZLCC.