Meghalaya-Arunachal tie, Nagaland’s win mark exciting start to NE Women’s T20

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 1, 2024

With 3 runs needed off the last ball against Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya managed a couple, resulting in a thrilling tie in the opening match of the 1st Senior Women’s Interstate Friendship T20 Tournament. The match, held on September 30 at Pahamsning Cricket Ground, Ri-Bhoi, ended with both teams sharing points.

In the second match, Nagaland comfortably defeated Mizoram by 5 wickets, with 7.4 overs to spare.

The tournament, organized by the North East Cricket Development Council, brings together six regional states – Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim. The opening day saw the unveiling of the tournament trophy in the presence of players, team officials, NECDC members, and officials from the Meghalaya Cricket Association and Ri-Bhoi District Cricket Association. The event also serves as a preparatory ground for the upcoming BCCI domestic season in 2024-25.

Arunachal Pradesh won the toss in the Group A match and chose to bat, but outstanding bowling performances from Meghalaya captain Debasmita Dutta (4/10 in 4 overs) and Ruby Chettri (3/13 in 4 overs) restricted Arunachal to 78/9 in 20 overs. Contributions from Sardam Ligu (17 not out) and Nabam (19) helped push their total after being 30/6 at one point.

Meghalaya’s chase was anchored by opener Monica Lyngdoh Phawa, who scored a steady 37 from 65 balls, including six boundaries. However, her dismissal in the final over left Meghalaya just short, finishing on 78/8. Debasmita Dutta was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance.

In the Group B clash, Mizoram batted first and were bowled out for 61 in 19.3 overs, with only Felfeli Pautu (15) and Miriam L Hrahse (13) reaching double figures. Nagaland’s bowlers, Elina Muru (2/7 in 4 overs) and Limatola Ao (2/9 in 4 overs), led the charge.

Nagaland chased the target comfortably, led by Alemienla’s unbeaten 30, finishing on 62/5 in 12.2 overs.

On October 1, Manipur will face Arunachal in Group A at 9 AM, followed by Sikkim versus Nagaland in Group B at 12:30 PM. Livestreaming will be available on cricheroes.com.