Date & Time: 17 June 2023 | 1630 hrs (CET)
Venue: Hendigen, Zug
Competition: Pickwick Cup T20 Competition
Toss: Pakhtoon Zalmi Won the Toss & Elected to Bat First
In a much anticipated encounter of T-20 league between Zurich Lions CC and Pakthoon Zalmi CC, it was the disciplined effort from the bowlers that set up a comfortable chase for the ZLCC batters. The match took place at the picturesque ground at Hedingen - Zug on Saturday 17th June 2023; on a bright sunny day, where both teams were eager to secure a vital win.
Pakthoon Zalmi CC won the toss and elected to bat first, hoping to set a formidable target. However, they were greeted by a disciplined and determined bowling attack from Zurich Lions CC right from the outset. The opening bowlers, Kanishk and Senthil, maintained an impeccable line and length, making run-scoring a difficult task for the batsmen and got important early wickets.
Kanishk struck early, dismissing the dangerous opener Arif with a lovely outswinger that was gloved straight into the hands of the wicketkeeper Sam. Senthil, on the other end, bowled with impeccable accuracy, inducing false strokes and beating the bat on numerous occasions. Their consistent pressure yielded immediate results as they claimed a couple of early wickets, leaving Pakthoon Zalmi CC reeling at 45 for 3 in the 5th over.
As the innings progressed, Zurich Lions CC's bowlers continued to apply pressure, with each bowler contributing with tight lines and variations in pace. Omed & Snehil bowled a tight spell, frustrating the batters with their accuracy. It was the over from Snehil where Pakthoon Zalmi were put in chaos loosing 3 wickets. He bowled with impressive control and generated movement off the pitch and used variations to fool the batters. After 6th over from Snehil the scoreboard read 52/6. Mayur & Sara kept things tight from their spin and guile.
Snehil came back to the attack in 15th over and again broke the partnership with his slower ones with help of great fielding by fielders. Despite a few minor partnerships, Pakthoon Zalmi CC found it hard to break free from the shackles imposed by Zurich Lions CC's disciplined bowling unit Wickets fell at regular intervals, as the pressure mounted on the batters. Senthil took a screamer to end Zalmi's innings.
In a remarkable display of teamwork, where the bowlers kept a lid on the scoring rate, extra-ordinary fielding where ZLCC producded 4 run outs, direct throws, excellent wicket keeping, ZLCC bowled out Pakthoon Zalmi CC to a modest total of 136/10 in their allotted 20 overs.
Chasing 137 for victory, Zurich Lions CC's batters came out with a positive mindset, aiming to make the most of the solid platform laid by their bowlers. Openers Kanishk and Ankush provided a solid start, mixing caution with aggression to keep the required run rate in check. They shoot off in 4 overs 45 runs. Both rotated the strike effectively and punished the loose deliveries, gradually building a solid foundation for the chase. Kanishk played some glorious shots before he got out to a well made 27.
Both batters displayed
great composure and temperament as they negated the threat posed by Pakthoon Zalmi CC's bowlers. Kanishk, in particular, played some exquisite cover drives and lofted shots, while Ankush showed excellent timing and placement in his stroke play. The duo combined beautifully to construct a solid partnership, demoralizing the opposition.
With the foundation set, Zurich Lions CC's middle order took charge to ensure a smooth sail towards the target. After losing Loki,Senthil played a responsible knock, providing stability in the middle overs, while Ankush unleashed an array of attacking shots to keep the required run rate within reach. Ankush registered well-compiled half-century, ensuring Zurich Lions CC never lost control of the chase.
As the target drew nearer, Zurich Lions CC's batters accelerated their scoring rate, showcasing their power-hitting prowess. With a few lusty blows and calculated risks, they reached the target with ample overs to spare. It was a comprehensive victory for Zurich Lions CC, as they achieved the target of 137/2 with 8 wickets in hand and 3 overs remaining.
It was a splendid display of disciplined bowling by Zurich Lions CC's bowlers, who set the tone for the match by restricting Pakthoon Zalmi CC to a modest total. The batters, in turn, capitalized on the solid foundation laid by the openers and chased the target comfortably, exhibiting skill, temperament, and confidence.
Come next Sunday 25th June for CSNL 40 overs league, we are eagerly anticipating our next encounter with Nomads Embrach.
Until then keep supporting and take care.
#UNLEASHTHEPLAYERINYOU Snehil
TeamZLCC