Cricket: Vijay Premier League Cup Finals |19 August 2023

GSP 7S A emerged as the triumphant champions of the Vijay Premier League T20

GSP 7S A, VIJAY PREMIER LEAGUE champions

In a thrilling showdown at the Persévérance cricket ground, GSP 7S A emerged as the triumphant champions of the Vijay Premier League T20 2023 (Div 2) finals, outclassing PRG Kings by a commanding 36-run margin.

This resounding victory solidified GSP 7S A's position as the division 2 champions of Seychelles.

PRG kings won the toss and invited GSP 7S A to crease bat.

GSP 7S A's batsmen showcased their mettle, posting a competitive total of 130 runs within the stipulated 20 overs. Sachin Kunder and Arun Krishnan kick-started their innings with a stellar opening partnership of 71 runs in just 9.2 overs. Despite subsequent wickets falling at regular intervals, after the 1st wicket, the crucial partnership of 25 runs for the 4th wicket gave GSP 7S an opportunity to set a challenging target.

However, after the 4th wicket, PRG Kings secured four quick wickets, effectively curbing GSP 7S A's run rate in the death overs. As the 20 overs drew to a close, GSP 7S A managed to muster a total of 130 runs on the scoreboard.

Sachin Kunder's standout performance stood out, as he scored a brilliant 54 runs off 37 balls, embellishing his innings with 7 fours and 2 sixes.

Ankith Kanchan also played a vital role with his quick 24 runs off 17 balls.

PRG Kings' bowlers Kamal E and Kaleeswaran Selvadurai bowled brilliantly, each claiming 3 wickets for 22 and 23 runs respectively, significantly impacting GSP 7S A's batting line-up.

PRG Kings' pursuit of the 131-run target was marred by GSP 7S A's formidable bowling attack. Struggling right from the outset, PRG Kings' batsmen found it challenging to build substantial partnerships. They lost wickets at regular intervals, and by the 9.2-over mark, they were at 39 runs for the loss of 7 wickets. Despite the difficulties, Nagarajan Gnanapragasam and Kaleeswaran Selvadurai fought back hard for PRG Kings, contributing a noteworthy 50-run partnership for the 8th wicket.

However, GSP 7S A's bowling unit proved too strong for PRG Kings, as they managed to break the partnership and pick up wickets consistently.

PRG Kings ultimately fell short, with their innings concluding at 94 runs in 16.1 overs.

Nagarajan’s fighting spirit as a player was remarkable and noteworthy, as he gave his best for PRG Kings, scoring 48 runs in just 26 balls with 5 fours and 4 sixes.

Prasanth Ganpath, Kothandam, Santhosh Sivan, and Sachin Kunder showcased their bowling prowess by each securing 2 wickets, restricting PRG Kings to a modest total.

Player-of-the-match

Sachin Kunder's outstanding all-around performance earned him the coveted player-of-the-match award, underscoring his remarkable batting and invaluable contribution with the ball. His exceptional performance throughout the match played a pivotal role in GSP 7S A's success.

Champions

With this triumphant victory, GSP 7S A claimed the title of champions in the Vijay Premier League T20 2023 (Div 2). Their journey throughout the tournament showcased their exceptional teamwork, individual brilliance, and unwavering determination to emerge victorious.

MVP

In recognition of his consistent brilliance, Sachin Kunder was also named the most valuable player of the tournament, solidifying his status as a true cricketing talent with a bright future ahead.

Samith Lakpriya