Kolkata
The Siliguri Strikers kicked off their Bengal Pro T20 League campaign with a thrilling eight-run victory over the Harbour Diamonds at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
The league started on Tuesday with this exciting, low-scoring match between the Siliguri Strikers and Harbour Diamonds. Running until June 28, the league promises to deliver engaging and entertaining cricket for the fans.
Batting first, Siliguri Strikers were bowled out for 141 in 19.3 overs. Their innings began poorly, losing opener Abhishek Raman in the second over. Ankur Pal and Vishal Bhati then put together a 38-run partnership, but wickets continued to fall, leaving the Strikers at 81/5 by the 11th over. Vikas Singh and Shantanu provided some stability, pushing the score past 100, but both fell in quick succession, and the team was all out for 141.
In response, Harbour Diamonds struggled early, losing Sayan Mondal for 4 in the second over. They managed just 64 runs in the first 10 overs. Quick wickets in the 13th and 14th overs further dented their chase, despite a spirited 37 off 22 balls from Badal Singh Balyan. Skipper Manoj Tiwary’s slow 4 off 13 balls didn’t help, and needing 17 runs in the final over, the Diamonds fell short by 8 runs after Badal’s dismissal.
Next, Siliguri Strikers will face the Murshidabad Kings on Thursday. Representing areas like Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Kalimpong, the Strikers are eager to showcase their talent. The Bengal Pro T20 League, inspired by the IPL, features eight franchise teams in both men’s and women’s categories, ensuring a thrilling cricket season for fans.
