Oxford emerged champions of the All-Goa Under-17 Leather Ball Cricket Tournament after defeating Banjara Cricket Club by 11 runs in the final played at the NAPEX ground. The tournament was organised by Visual Link Cricketers in association with the Goa Cricket Association.
In a closely contested match, Oxford delivered a strong all-round performance to secure the title.
Batting first, Oxford posted 157/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Captain Afrid anchored the innings with an unbeaten 85, providing stability and momentum. He was supported by Priyanshu Verma, who added 38 runs. For Banjara, Chetan Lamani, Ansh Harmalkar, and Parth Sankpal picked up one wicket each.
Chasing a target of 158, Banjara Cricket Club mounted a competitive response. Captain Sai Naik led from the front with a fighting 72, while Parth Sankpal contributed 26 runs. At one stage, Banjara were well placed at 130/2, but Oxford’s disciplined bowling turned the game.
Banjara were eventually restricted to 146/6 in 20 overs, falling short by 11 runs. Usman Ghani’s bowling in the crucial phase applied pressure and played a key role in the turnaround.
For Oxford, Usman Ghani took two wickets, while Shivam Singh, Afrid, and Rumaan Mulam claimed one wicket each. Afrid’s all-round performance proved decisive in Oxford’s victory.
Next Gen Cricket Academy’s head coach Keenan Vaz and assistant coach Tausif Mulla were acknowledged for their role in nurturing talent, with more than 20 players in the final representing the academy.
At the prize distribution ceremony, Chairman of Shree Mallikarjun and Chetan Manju Desai College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Canacona, Chetan Desai, attended as chief guest. Other dignitaries present included Siddesh Salunke, Paresh Phadte, Pandhari Gauns, and Vijay Kudtarkar.
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