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A total team effort, says Devgiri coach
For a team without many superstars, Devgiri Emperors did well to finish at No 5 in the MPL-II, before doing the unthinkable of winning the tile the next year. From finishing last in the league in MPL-I to fifth place finish in MPL-II and being crowned the champions in the MPL-III, it has been an incredible journey for Devgiri, and their coach Hemant Athlye. In fact, it’s the fact that Devgiri didn’t have too many superstars that actually worked in their favour, feels Athlye.
On paper, they went into the semis as the weakest of the four. "We were always confident of our team’s potential. We had the self- belief. Some teams underestimated us. And that was their downfall, I feel. It worked in our favour as it took all the pressure off us. Throughout the tournament we took wickets at crucial points. Our bowlers did a brilliant job for the team every time. We have a formidable batting line up too," Athlye said.
And after being termed the weakest of the four semi-finalists, Devgiri knocked out the both former champions, the Sinhagad Supremos in the semis, and the Raigad Royals in the final, to earn a well-deserved title. "We’ve beaten two defending Champions in Sinhagad Supremos and Raigad Royals to go all the way, this stat makes our triumph even more special. During the group stages, we had beaten the Supremos quite emphatically. So that result played part in our plannings. We always planned to enjoy our cricket without any pressure. That freedom also was a key," the coach said.
"It was a total team effort. Our bowlers did their job exceptionally well, batters got the runs when they were needed the most," he added.
Skipper Amit Patil also echoed the coach’s views. "We had a long batting line-up. We have managed to bowl out teams inside 20 overs on four-five occasions this season, which is a great effort. I think, altogether, we have done well as a unit, we have enjoyed our cricket, and here we are," the left-hand batsman said.
And so, what’s the feeling after being crowned the champions? "It’s unbelievable. I am elated for the boys and the whole team. The hard work that we’ve put in this team has paid off. We’ve been dreaming of this moment since the first season. It’s been very special journey for the team. We finished last in the first edition. We finished fifth last year. So the team’s certainly going into the right direction," Athlye explained.
"When we saw the trophy at the opening ceremony, we felt it should be ours. It was a dream that began at the opening ceremony. We lost the first match badly (being bowled out for 64), but our coaches helped us in keeping the morale high. We just tried to forget that game, and tried enjoying our game," Patil added.
On paper, they went into the semis as the weakest of the four. "We were always confident of our team’s potential. We had the self- belief. Some teams underestimated us. And that was their downfall, I feel. It worked in our favour as it took all the pressure off us. Throughout the tournament we took wickets at crucial points. Our bowlers did a brilliant job for the team every time. We have a formidable batting line up too," Athlye said.
And after being termed the weakest of the four semi-finalists, Devgiri knocked out the both former champions, the Sinhagad Supremos in the semis, and the Raigad Royals in the final, to earn a well-deserved title. "We’ve beaten two defending Champions in Sinhagad Supremos and Raigad Royals to go all the way, this stat makes our triumph even more special. During the group stages, we had beaten the Supremos quite emphatically. So that result played part in our plannings. We always planned to enjoy our cricket without any pressure. That freedom also was a key," the coach said.
"It was a total team effort. Our bowlers did their job exceptionally well, batters got the runs when they were needed the most," he added.
Skipper Amit Patil also echoed the coach’s views. "We had a long batting line-up. We have managed to bowl out teams inside 20 overs on four-five occasions this season, which is a great effort. I think, altogether, we have done well as a unit, we have enjoyed our cricket, and here we are," the left-hand batsman said.
And so, what’s the feeling after being crowned the champions? "It’s unbelievable. I am elated for the boys and the whole team. The hard work that we’ve put in this team has paid off. We’ve been dreaming of this moment since the first season. It’s been very special journey for the team. We finished last in the first edition. We finished fifth last year. So the team’s certainly going into the right direction," Athlye explained.
"When we saw the trophy at the opening ceremony, we felt it should be ours. It was a dream that began at the opening ceremony. We lost the first match badly (being bowled out for 64), but our coaches helped us in keeping the morale high. We just tried to forget that game, and tried enjoying our game," Patil added.
Toss was crucial, says Raigad assistant coach
After having been an exceptional batting unit throughout the MPL-III, Raigad Royals failed to deliver in the final on Sunday. The conditions were not easy for batting early on, and Devgiri’s superb bowling made it it even tougher for the 2009 champions.
"We knew the toss would be crucial. We wanted to be stable in the first 10-12 overs and then accelerate from there on. Unfortunately, the Devgiri bowlers didn’t let our batters settle, so we were not able to score that freely," said Raigad’s assistant coach Jaydeep Narse.
In the end, a total of 109 was always going to be difficult to defend, and it proved to be that way. "109 runs on as a damp and slow wicket as that, was a good effort. At the break, we planned to have an early go at them. And we succeeded in putting the Emperors under the pressure to some extent, but it wasn’t quite enough," the former Maharashtra Ranji batsman added.
"It was really damp when we batted on it, and there was swing. I think the wicket had eased out a bit when they (Devgiri) batted. We still bowled well to have them at 58 for 5, but the partnership between Sumit Chavan and Mandar Dhumke did the job for them," Raigad skipper Rohit Motwani explained. Man-of-the-match Sumit Chavan and Devgiri skipper Amit Patil also agreed to Motwani’s view that the pitch had eased out a bit in the second half on the inning, although that doesn’t take any credit away from Emperors.
On the Royals overall performances, Narse said, "We’re really close as a group. We never play for individual records; we always try and play for each other. Hence we’ve been so consistent. We’ve been in the finals for three straight years now. And this stat is very satisfying, although we would like to correct our stats in the finals."
"We knew the toss would be crucial. We wanted to be stable in the first 10-12 overs and then accelerate from there on. Unfortunately, the Devgiri bowlers didn’t let our batters settle, so we were not able to score that freely," said Raigad’s assistant coach Jaydeep Narse.
In the end, a total of 109 was always going to be difficult to defend, and it proved to be that way. "109 runs on as a damp and slow wicket as that, was a good effort. At the break, we planned to have an early go at them. And we succeeded in putting the Emperors under the pressure to some extent, but it wasn’t quite enough," the former Maharashtra Ranji batsman added.
"It was really damp when we batted on it, and there was swing. I think the wicket had eased out a bit when they (Devgiri) batted. We still bowled well to have them at 58 for 5, but the partnership between Sumit Chavan and Mandar Dhumke did the job for them," Raigad skipper Rohit Motwani explained. Man-of-the-match Sumit Chavan and Devgiri skipper Amit Patil also agreed to Motwani’s view that the pitch had eased out a bit in the second half on the inning, although that doesn’t take any credit away from Emperors.
On the Royals overall performances, Narse said, "We’re really close as a group. We never play for individual records; we always try and play for each other. Hence we’ve been so consistent. We’ve been in the finals for three straight years now. And this stat is very satisfying, although we would like to correct our stats in the finals."
Raigad Royals – Role Models For Consistency
Despite losing for the 2nd consecutive time, reaching all three finals is a feat that cannot go unnoticed
Right from the time the first ever MPL auction was held more than three years back, Raigad Royals have remained the team to beat. They have set the benchmark, with their sheer talent, superb commitment, and consistent performances. Being in the final of all the three seasons, winning one, is a proof enough of how consistent the Royals have been.
So what makes them as good as they are? To begin with they have an extremely knowledgeable owner in the MCA president Ajay Shirke.
No disrespect to the owners of the other franchisees, but Shirke understands the players, their needs, and their roles a shade better than anyone else, for the sheer magnitude of his involvement in the State cricket for the past six-seven years. So, right from the first auction, Raigad have had a superb balance to their squad.
Raigad are the best batting side in the MPL, by some margin, their performance in the final against Devgiri on Sunday notwithstanding. Not only they bat very deep, every single of their batsman has the ability of hitting sixes, and hitting fours even after the power-play is over.
It begins right at the top, with Harshad khadiwale, and skipper Rohit Motwani opening the batting. Followed by Pravin De Shetty, Sangram Atitkar, Nikhil Paradkar, Shrikant Mundhe, Digamber Waghmare, Sandip Adole; just name the player, and he will hit the big shots when the team needs it. The biggest advantage of this is, the pressure never quite builds up on the Royals batting, even if they lose a few early wickets.
That was quite evident when Royals were chasing a decent target of 158 against Pratapgad Warriors in the semi-final on Friday, and were reduced to 34 for 3 in the fifth over. Paradkar, Atitkar, and Mundhe smacked sixes at will, keeping the required run-rate always under check.
Without doubt, batting remains Raigad’s biggest strength, and the addition of Shrikant Mundhe for the MPL-III, has only made it even stronger.
They are one of the better fielding units in the MPL, led by the ever alert Digamber Waghmare. With an English coach, Dermot Reeve, it was always expected that there will be special focus given to fielding right from the beginning.
Royals might not have the most threatening bowling attack (the final also proved that) in the tournament, but what they have is a good balanced attack, with a lot of options. If Sunny Patel and Shrikant Mundhe fail to get wickets early on, skipper Motwani can go to left-arm pace of Adole, left-arm spin of Dhaval Hemnani, medium pace of Khadiwale and Atitkar. They have the off-spin of Paradkar, who often opens the bowling, and bowls some quiet overs inside powerplay.
Another key factor in Raigad’s success, is the fact that their core team has always remained the same. None of their big players has left the franchisee, and the batting line-up has been more or less the same for all the three seasons.
It obviously helps in better understanding among team members, and also helps the coach in building the team, and giving them fixed roles.
It’s no wonder that in all three finals the one thing common that MPL has had is Royals figuring in all – topping once and finishing bridesmaid twice. That’s consistency.
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Right from the time the first ever MPL auction was held more than three years back, Raigad Royals have remained the team to beat. They have set the benchmark, with their sheer talent, superb commitment, and consistent performances. Being in the final of all the three seasons, winning one, is a proof enough of how consistent the Royals have been.
So what makes them as good as they are? To begin with they have an extremely knowledgeable owner in the MCA president Ajay Shirke.
No disrespect to the owners of the other franchisees, but Shirke understands the players, their needs, and their roles a shade better than anyone else, for the sheer magnitude of his involvement in the State cricket for the past six-seven years. So, right from the first auction, Raigad have had a superb balance to their squad.
Raigad are the best batting side in the MPL, by some margin, their performance in the final against Devgiri on Sunday notwithstanding. Not only they bat very deep, every single of their batsman has the ability of hitting sixes, and hitting fours even after the power-play is over.
It begins right at the top, with Harshad khadiwale, and skipper Rohit Motwani opening the batting. Followed by Pravin De Shetty, Sangram Atitkar, Nikhil Paradkar, Shrikant Mundhe, Digamber Waghmare, Sandip Adole; just name the player, and he will hit the big shots when the team needs it. The biggest advantage of this is, the pressure never quite builds up on the Royals batting, even if they lose a few early wickets.
That was quite evident when Royals were chasing a decent target of 158 against Pratapgad Warriors in the semi-final on Friday, and were reduced to 34 for 3 in the fifth over. Paradkar, Atitkar, and Mundhe smacked sixes at will, keeping the required run-rate always under check.
Without doubt, batting remains Raigad’s biggest strength, and the addition of Shrikant Mundhe for the MPL-III, has only made it even stronger.
They are one of the better fielding units in the MPL, led by the ever alert Digamber Waghmare. With an English coach, Dermot Reeve, it was always expected that there will be special focus given to fielding right from the beginning.
Royals might not have the most threatening bowling attack (the final also proved that) in the tournament, but what they have is a good balanced attack, with a lot of options. If Sunny Patel and Shrikant Mundhe fail to get wickets early on, skipper Motwani can go to left-arm pace of Adole, left-arm spin of Dhaval Hemnani, medium pace of Khadiwale and Atitkar. They have the off-spin of Paradkar, who often opens the bowling, and bowls some quiet overs inside powerplay.
Another key factor in Raigad’s success, is the fact that their core team has always remained the same. None of their big players has left the franchisee, and the batting line-up has been more or less the same for all the three seasons.
It obviously helps in better understanding among team members, and also helps the coach in building the team, and giving them fixed roles.
It’s no wonder that in all three finals the one thing common that MPL has had is Royals figuring in all – topping once and finishing bridesmaid twice. That’s consistency.
EMPERORS MPL-III CHAMPIONS
Sumit Chavan’s unbeaten knock proves instrumental in ending the Royals run
Devgiri Emperors joined the list of assorted winners in the Maharashtra Premier League when by winning the third edition.
Aided by a disciplined bowling display followed by a matured unbeaten knock from opener Sumit Chavan Emperors stun former champions Raigad Royals by registering a five wickets win.
With the venue shifted to Poona Club after the originally planned Deccan Gymkhana was unplayable due to the heavy Saturday night showers, Devgiri won a very crucial toss and bowled out a very strong Raigad batting line up for a paltry 109 in less than 18 overs.
Devgiri struggled during their chase, and had lost half their side with just 58 runs on the board, before Chavan and Mandar Dhumke came up with a 52-run unbroken stand and sealed the title in Devgiri’s favour with 2.4 overs to spare.
In conditions and on a pitch that helped seamers early on, right-arm pacer Kishore Bhikane removed Raigad openers Harshad Khadiwale and Pravin De Shetty with just 11 runs on the board.
Bowler Of The Tournament Bhikane swung the ball and got good bounce, finishing with his third four-wicket haul of the tournament. He finished with 16 wickets in the tournament.
After Bhikane’s early breakthroughs, all-rounder Chetan Suryavanshi did a lot of damage in the middle-overs, removing Raigad skipper Rohit Motwani, best batsmen of the tournament Nikhil Paradkar, and big hitting all-rounder Sandip Adole, who scored 30 runs off just 20 balls with the help of three sixes and two fours.
Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Raigad batsmen kept going for big shots, in pursuit of a challenging total, and failed to get any significant partnerships. The only exception was a 42-run stand between Adole and Shrikant Mundhe.
Devgiri had a shaky start o their chase, losing dynamic opener, and player of the tournament Chetan Suryavanshi in the second over with just six runs on the board. One-down batsman Prayag Bhati, skipper Amit Patil, Soloman Chopade, Kartik Bhatia all failed to get into double digits, as Chavan stood like a rock at one end.
Chavan kept taking singles at will, and took a few calculated risks in between. He found a very solid partner in Mandar Dhumke, who had Suryavanshi as his runner after injuring himself while fielding. The duo began well, and Chavan smacked left-arm pacer Adole for a six, before Dhumke gave the same treatment to Sangram Atitkar.
The two sixes eased the pressure before Atitkar’s next over (16th of the innings) went for 14 runs. With 10 runs needed off 3 overs Chavan hit Mundhe for a six and a four to complete the formalities, which was followed with huge celebrations.
Brief Scores
Raigad Royals: 109 all out; 17.5 overs (Sandip Adole 30, Kishore Bhikane 4/12, Chetan Suryavanshi 3/23) lost to Devgiri Emperors 110 for 5; 17.2 overs (Sumit Chavan 59 n.o, Mandar Dhumke 20 n.o., Shrikant Mundhe 2/28, Sangram Atitkar 2/27) – by 5-wkts
Toss: Emperors won, elected to field
Man-of-the-Match: Sumit Chavan (Emperors)
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| Champions 2011 - Devgiri Emperors |
Devgiri Emperors joined the list of assorted winners in the Maharashtra Premier League when by winning the third edition.
Aided by a disciplined bowling display followed by a matured unbeaten knock from opener Sumit Chavan Emperors stun former champions Raigad Royals by registering a five wickets win.
With the venue shifted to Poona Club after the originally planned Deccan Gymkhana was unplayable due to the heavy Saturday night showers, Devgiri won a very crucial toss and bowled out a very strong Raigad batting line up for a paltry 109 in less than 18 overs.
Devgiri struggled during their chase, and had lost half their side with just 58 runs on the board, before Chavan and Mandar Dhumke came up with a 52-run unbroken stand and sealed the title in Devgiri’s favour with 2.4 overs to spare.
In conditions and on a pitch that helped seamers early on, right-arm pacer Kishore Bhikane removed Raigad openers Harshad Khadiwale and Pravin De Shetty with just 11 runs on the board.
Bowler Of The Tournament Bhikane swung the ball and got good bounce, finishing with his third four-wicket haul of the tournament. He finished with 16 wickets in the tournament.
After Bhikane’s early breakthroughs, all-rounder Chetan Suryavanshi did a lot of damage in the middle-overs, removing Raigad skipper Rohit Motwani, best batsmen of the tournament Nikhil Paradkar, and big hitting all-rounder Sandip Adole, who scored 30 runs off just 20 balls with the help of three sixes and two fours.
Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Raigad batsmen kept going for big shots, in pursuit of a challenging total, and failed to get any significant partnerships. The only exception was a 42-run stand between Adole and Shrikant Mundhe.
Devgiri had a shaky start o their chase, losing dynamic opener, and player of the tournament Chetan Suryavanshi in the second over with just six runs on the board. One-down batsman Prayag Bhati, skipper Amit Patil, Soloman Chopade, Kartik Bhatia all failed to get into double digits, as Chavan stood like a rock at one end.
Chavan kept taking singles at will, and took a few calculated risks in between. He found a very solid partner in Mandar Dhumke, who had Suryavanshi as his runner after injuring himself while fielding. The duo began well, and Chavan smacked left-arm pacer Adole for a six, before Dhumke gave the same treatment to Sangram Atitkar.
The two sixes eased the pressure before Atitkar’s next over (16th of the innings) went for 14 runs. With 10 runs needed off 3 overs Chavan hit Mundhe for a six and a four to complete the formalities, which was followed with huge celebrations.
Brief Scores
Raigad Royals: 109 all out; 17.5 overs (Sandip Adole 30, Kishore Bhikane 4/12, Chetan Suryavanshi 3/23) lost to Devgiri Emperors 110 for 5; 17.2 overs (Sumit Chavan 59 n.o, Mandar Dhumke 20 n.o., Shrikant Mundhe 2/28, Sangram Atitkar 2/27) – by 5-wkts
Toss: Emperors won, elected to field
Man-of-the-Match: Sumit Chavan (Emperors)
HEAD TO HEAD: FINAL
MATCH 31: Devgiri Emperors 1-1 Raigad Royals
RESULTS
06/5/2009 (L): Royals won by 6-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
17/5/2010 (L): Emperors won by 15 runs - DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
30/9/2011 (L): Match Abandoned, Rain - Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A-A-W-L-W-W
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A-W-L-W
RESULTS
06/5/2009 (L): Royals won by 6-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
17/5/2010 (L): Emperors won by 15 runs - DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
30/9/2011 (L): Match Abandoned, Rain - Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A-A-W-L-W-W
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A-W-L-W
All set for the finale
After 11 days of high drama, big hits, brilliant bowling spells, superb fielding displays, and of course frustrating rain breaks, we are down to the two best teams left in the MPL. Raigad Royals, the best of them all, are set to take on dark-horses Devgiri Emperors in what promises to be a cracking of a final on Sunday at the Deccan Gymkhana.
Going by their previous records, odds are heavily staked in the favour of Royals. However, Devgiri have earned their place in the finals with some hard-fought victories, and as both the teams involved would know, it’s about the team that performs better on the big day, and not about their aura, and records.
Right from the time the first ever MPL got underway in 2009, Raigad Royals have been the team to beat. And with their consistent quality performances, they have maintained that position for the third successive year.
Playing in a MPL final is nothing new to them, having been there thrice in three seasons. They beat Pratapgad Warriors in the first, before going down to Sinhagad Supremos in the second.
For Devgiri though, it’s an unknown territory altogether. Forget the finals, they were not even close to making it to the semis in the first year, before finishing a respectable fifth in 2010. Playing in a final might be new for them, but creating upsets is certainly not. This year, they have made amends for their average performances in the first two seasons, beating the defending champions Sinhagad twice, inclusing in the semis, to earn a well-deserved place in the final.
WHAT DEVGIRI EMPERORS NEED TO WIN
On a Deccan Gymkhana pitch that is full of runs, Devgiri need their new-ball pair of Kishore Bhikane and Sajin Sureshnath to strike early. The only way to contain a dynamic batting line-up of Raigad is to take wickets at regular intervals. Both Bhikane and Sureshnath have bowled well this season, and Devgiri need them to be at their best on Sunday. The role of left-arm spinner Akshay Tandale is also crucial, as it’s important to maintain the pressure, if Bhikane and Sureshnath manage to create it. Fielding is not considered to be Devgiri’s strength, but against an opposition as strong as Raigad, one or two missed opportunities could mean end of the story.
Devgiri have genuine match winners in batsmen like Chetan Suryavanshi, skipper Amit Patil and Prayag Bhati. Devgiri would like at least two of them to fire, because if they have to bat first, they will have to score in excess of 170 to have a realistic chance.
WHAT RAIGAD ROYALS NEED FOR A WIN
Realistically, all Raigad need to do is play to their potential. They have a terrific batting line-up, with a genuine opener like Rohan Bhosale coming in at No 8. More importantly, all their top eight have the ability to hit sixes, and smack fours even after the powerplay is over. Except for talented opener Harshad Khadiwale, almost all of their batsmen have been amongst runs. Khadiwale is overdue for a big score, and Devgiri would really hope that Sunday is not the time he chooses to set the record straight. Apart from being one of the best fielding side in the tournament, Raigad also have a very balanced bowling attack that has three pacers, and three spinners, apart from part-time medium pace of Khadiwale and Sangram Atitkar.
Raigad’s biggest strength is their confidence, having been unbeatable for most part of their MPL campaign for all the three years.
Going by their previous records, odds are heavily staked in the favour of Royals. However, Devgiri have earned their place in the finals with some hard-fought victories, and as both the teams involved would know, it’s about the team that performs better on the big day, and not about their aura, and records.
Right from the time the first ever MPL got underway in 2009, Raigad Royals have been the team to beat. And with their consistent quality performances, they have maintained that position for the third successive year.
Playing in a MPL final is nothing new to them, having been there thrice in three seasons. They beat Pratapgad Warriors in the first, before going down to Sinhagad Supremos in the second.
For Devgiri though, it’s an unknown territory altogether. Forget the finals, they were not even close to making it to the semis in the first year, before finishing a respectable fifth in 2010. Playing in a final might be new for them, but creating upsets is certainly not. This year, they have made amends for their average performances in the first two seasons, beating the defending champions Sinhagad twice, inclusing in the semis, to earn a well-deserved place in the final.
WHAT DEVGIRI EMPERORS NEED TO WIN
On a Deccan Gymkhana pitch that is full of runs, Devgiri need their new-ball pair of Kishore Bhikane and Sajin Sureshnath to strike early. The only way to contain a dynamic batting line-up of Raigad is to take wickets at regular intervals. Both Bhikane and Sureshnath have bowled well this season, and Devgiri need them to be at their best on Sunday. The role of left-arm spinner Akshay Tandale is also crucial, as it’s important to maintain the pressure, if Bhikane and Sureshnath manage to create it. Fielding is not considered to be Devgiri’s strength, but against an opposition as strong as Raigad, one or two missed opportunities could mean end of the story.
Devgiri have genuine match winners in batsmen like Chetan Suryavanshi, skipper Amit Patil and Prayag Bhati. Devgiri would like at least two of them to fire, because if they have to bat first, they will have to score in excess of 170 to have a realistic chance.
WHAT RAIGAD ROYALS NEED FOR A WIN
Realistically, all Raigad need to do is play to their potential. They have a terrific batting line-up, with a genuine opener like Rohan Bhosale coming in at No 8. More importantly, all their top eight have the ability to hit sixes, and smack fours even after the powerplay is over. Except for talented opener Harshad Khadiwale, almost all of their batsmen have been amongst runs. Khadiwale is overdue for a big score, and Devgiri would really hope that Sunday is not the time he chooses to set the record straight. Apart from being one of the best fielding side in the tournament, Raigad also have a very balanced bowling attack that has three pacers, and three spinners, apart from part-time medium pace of Khadiwale and Sangram Atitkar.
Raigad’s biggest strength is their confidence, having been unbeatable for most part of their MPL campaign for all the three years.
Paradkar, Atitkar Lead Raigad into Finals
PUNE, OCTOBER 7: A brilliant unbeaten 73-run knock by Nikhil Paradkar, and his 101-run partnership with Sangram Atitkar helped Raigad Royals to their third successive final in the MPL on Friday.
Chasing 158 for victory against a good new-ball attack of Pratapgad Warriors, Royals were in a spot of bother at 34 for 3 in the sixth over. But Paradkar and Atitkar (42) did the job of rebuilding to perfection, and maintained a good run-rate to ensure that the Royals always had the required run-rate under control. All-rounder Shrikant Mundhe then smashed 21 not out off just 6 balls to make sure the last-year’s runners-up reached the target with more than an over to spare.
After Pratapgad Warriors won the toss and opted to bat first, their opener Swapnil Gugale had another disappointing day with the bat, scoring 13 off 10 balls. Pratapgad’s batsman of the tournament, Shehzad Fakih scored boundaries at will from the other end, and found a solid partner in skipper Parag More. The duo added 66 runs off from 64 balls to set a platform for a big total. But after More’s departure, next two batsmen, Rohit Karanjkar and Mithun Kirad, failed to carry on the momentum, and Royals managed to slip in a few quiet overs. Fakih scored 65 off 54 balls, with the help of seven fours and two sixes. It was only due to some lusty blows from wicketkeeper Satyajit Satbhai (29 runs, 12 balls, 3 fours, 2 sixes) that the Warriors managed to get close to the 160-run mark.
Royals’ had a poor start to their chase, losing opener Harshad Khadiwale and Rohit Motwani for just 15 runs. One-down batsmen Pravin D Shetty didn’t last long either, before left-hander Paradkar and Atitkar took control of the game. Paradkar went after leg-spinner Sunil Yadav straightway, and was able to clear the boundary rope with a lot of ease. He smashed Yadav for three sixes, two of them coming off the 16th over of the innings. Paradkar and Atitkar’s 101 runs partnership came off just 68 balls, before Mundhe came in to get rid of the rest of the pressure, if there was any.
Brief scores: Pratapgad Warriors 187 for 6 in 20 overs (Shehzad Fakih 65, Parag More 36, Satyajit Satbhai 29 n.o. Shrikant Mundhe 2-13) lost to Raigad Royals 160 for 4 in 18.4 overs (Nikhil Paradkar 73 n.o. Sangram Atitkar 42).
Toss: Pratapgad Warriors, who opted to bat
Man of the Match: Nikhil Paradkar (Raigad Royals)
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Nikhil Paradkar sweeps during his match winning
knock of unbeaten 73 runs off 47 balls |
Chasing 158 for victory against a good new-ball attack of Pratapgad Warriors, Royals were in a spot of bother at 34 for 3 in the sixth over. But Paradkar and Atitkar (42) did the job of rebuilding to perfection, and maintained a good run-rate to ensure that the Royals always had the required run-rate under control. All-rounder Shrikant Mundhe then smashed 21 not out off just 6 balls to make sure the last-year’s runners-up reached the target with more than an over to spare.
After Pratapgad Warriors won the toss and opted to bat first, their opener Swapnil Gugale had another disappointing day with the bat, scoring 13 off 10 balls. Pratapgad’s batsman of the tournament, Shehzad Fakih scored boundaries at will from the other end, and found a solid partner in skipper Parag More. The duo added 66 runs off from 64 balls to set a platform for a big total. But after More’s departure, next two batsmen, Rohit Karanjkar and Mithun Kirad, failed to carry on the momentum, and Royals managed to slip in a few quiet overs. Fakih scored 65 off 54 balls, with the help of seven fours and two sixes. It was only due to some lusty blows from wicketkeeper Satyajit Satbhai (29 runs, 12 balls, 3 fours, 2 sixes) that the Warriors managed to get close to the 160-run mark.
Royals’ had a poor start to their chase, losing opener Harshad Khadiwale and Rohit Motwani for just 15 runs. One-down batsmen Pravin D Shetty didn’t last long either, before left-hander Paradkar and Atitkar took control of the game. Paradkar went after leg-spinner Sunil Yadav straightway, and was able to clear the boundary rope with a lot of ease. He smashed Yadav for three sixes, two of them coming off the 16th over of the innings. Paradkar and Atitkar’s 101 runs partnership came off just 68 balls, before Mundhe came in to get rid of the rest of the pressure, if there was any.
Brief scores: Pratapgad Warriors 187 for 6 in 20 overs (Shehzad Fakih 65, Parag More 36, Satyajit Satbhai 29 n.o. Shrikant Mundhe 2-13) lost to Raigad Royals 160 for 4 in 18.4 overs (Nikhil Paradkar 73 n.o. Sangram Atitkar 42).
Toss: Pratapgad Warriors, who opted to bat
Man of the Match: Nikhil Paradkar (Raigad Royals)
Devgiri Dethrone Sinhagad to Make Final
Chetan Suryavanshi hits half-century, Prayag Bhati scores 40 as Emperors strike Supremos
Pune, October 7: Third year in a row, there will no defending champion to retain the Cottonking Maharashtra Premier League Twenty20 title as Devgiri Emperors shot out Sinhagad Supremos in the semifinal at the Poona Club ground here on Friday.
Losing the toss meant Sinhagad were forced to bat on a pitch that offered lots of turn and Devgiri took full advantage of it to restrict the defending champions to a modest total of 148 for four in the allotted 20 overs.
Chasing was more easy as pitch had dried up by then and ball came in nicely on the bat. Opener Chetan Suryavanshi and Prayag Bhati played sensibly after Devgiri lost Sumit Chavan (15) with the scoreboard reach 51.
The two jelled well and negotiated Sinhagad bowling for much of the afternoon to put Devgiri in command. Suryavanshi scored 57 in just 42 balls stroking three fours and four towering sixes while Bhati needed 30 balls for his 40 that included four hits to the fence and one six.
The two added 71 runs for the second wicket before Suryavanshi was snapped by Ingale off Ameya Shrikhande’s bowling. Devgiri could add just two more runs to the total before Bhati also departed leaving two new batsmen to carry a great responsibility.
There were two more hiccups, but Amit Patil (7 not out) and Soloman Chopde (8 not out) saw to it that the victory was in Devgiri’s lap.
Earlier, put in to bat, Sinhagad began tentatively after opener Ameya Shrikhande returned scoring just 7 runs. His partner Vishant More (23) too did not last long and Supremos were down to 40 for 2 before Ganesh Gaikwad and Mansingh Nigade put on 64 runs for the third wicket to give some semblance to the score.
Gaikwad was out caught by Suryavanshi off Kishore Bhikane on 42 off 30 ball that included three hits to the boundary. Towards the end, Azhar Ansari (14) and Vishal Bhilare (22 not out) scored some crucial runs to give Devgiri a modest total to chase.
Brief scores:
Sinhagad Supremos: 148 for 4 in 20 overs (Vishant More 23, Ganesh Gaikwad 42, Mansingh Nigade 33, Vishal Bhilare not out 22, Kishore Bhikane 2-32).
Devgiri Emperors: 151 for 5 in 19 overs (Chetan Suryavanshi 57, Prayag Bhati 40, Ameya Shrikhande 3-17).
Toss: Devgiri Emperors won the toss and decided to field.
Man-of-the-match: Prayag Bhati (Emperors)
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Devgiri Emperors skipper Chetan Suryavanshi during his knock of 57 runs off 42 balls
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Pune, October 7: Third year in a row, there will no defending champion to retain the Cottonking Maharashtra Premier League Twenty20 title as Devgiri Emperors shot out Sinhagad Supremos in the semifinal at the Poona Club ground here on Friday.
Losing the toss meant Sinhagad were forced to bat on a pitch that offered lots of turn and Devgiri took full advantage of it to restrict the defending champions to a modest total of 148 for four in the allotted 20 overs.
Chasing was more easy as pitch had dried up by then and ball came in nicely on the bat. Opener Chetan Suryavanshi and Prayag Bhati played sensibly after Devgiri lost Sumit Chavan (15) with the scoreboard reach 51.
The two jelled well and negotiated Sinhagad bowling for much of the afternoon to put Devgiri in command. Suryavanshi scored 57 in just 42 balls stroking three fours and four towering sixes while Bhati needed 30 balls for his 40 that included four hits to the fence and one six.
The two added 71 runs for the second wicket before Suryavanshi was snapped by Ingale off Ameya Shrikhande’s bowling. Devgiri could add just two more runs to the total before Bhati also departed leaving two new batsmen to carry a great responsibility.
There were two more hiccups, but Amit Patil (7 not out) and Soloman Chopde (8 not out) saw to it that the victory was in Devgiri’s lap.
Earlier, put in to bat, Sinhagad began tentatively after opener Ameya Shrikhande returned scoring just 7 runs. His partner Vishant More (23) too did not last long and Supremos were down to 40 for 2 before Ganesh Gaikwad and Mansingh Nigade put on 64 runs for the third wicket to give some semblance to the score.
Gaikwad was out caught by Suryavanshi off Kishore Bhikane on 42 off 30 ball that included three hits to the boundary. Towards the end, Azhar Ansari (14) and Vishal Bhilare (22 not out) scored some crucial runs to give Devgiri a modest total to chase.
Brief scores:
Sinhagad Supremos: 148 for 4 in 20 overs (Vishant More 23, Ganesh Gaikwad 42, Mansingh Nigade 33, Vishal Bhilare not out 22, Kishore Bhikane 2-32).
Devgiri Emperors: 151 for 5 in 19 overs (Chetan Suryavanshi 57, Prayag Bhati 40, Ameya Shrikhande 3-17).
Toss: Devgiri Emperors won the toss and decided to field.
Man-of-the-match: Prayag Bhati (Emperors)
Must-win situation starts right here
The high drama and superb entertainment of the league stage in the MPL is over, and we are down to the final four. The tournament has reached a stage where there are no more cushions for the teams. One bad performance, or even a couple of bad overs and you are out of the tournament, as the third edition of the MPL enters the knockout stage.
The semi-finals will be played on Friday, where defending champions Sinhagad Supremos will take on the first-time semi-finalists Devgiri Emperors, while the other semi-final will see a repeat of the MPL-2009 final, between Raigad Royals and Pratapgad Warriors.
We take a closer look at the four teams involved, their record in the tournament, their strengths and weaknesses.
SINHAGAD SUPREMOS
Strengths: The defending champions finished top in the league stage with 22 points and lost only one of their seven games. They have batted well as a unit, and smashed their way to an imposing 202 for 4 in their last league game against Raigad Royals on Wednesday. Opener Vishant More, skipper Ganesh Gaikwad, middle-order batsman Mansingh Nigde, all-rounder Azhar Ansari have all batted well at different stages of the tournament, which gives Supremos a nice balance. Last year’s bowler of the tournament Jitendra Patil has been among wickets with his left-arm pace, and left-arm spinner Akshay Darekar has been absolutely brilliant throughout the tournament.
Weaknesses: Despite being a superb batting unit, Supremos were bowled out for a MPL lowest of 34 during the league stage. Another disastrous batting eprformance like that against the same opposition on Friday could end their MPL campaign. They have got three excellent T20 bowlers in Patil, Darekar and Gaikwad. However, oppositions have often exposed the other two bowlers. Lack of quality fourth and fifth bowler almost cost Supremos the game against Royals on Wednesday despite scoring a massive 202 batting first.
DEVGIRI EMPERORS
Strengths: A superb bowling unit, led by the new-ball duo of Kishore Bhikane and Sajin Sureshnath. Bhikane and Sureshnath have enjoyed bowling on the Poona Club track that has been helpful for seamers, and that’s the venue for Emperors semi-final against Supremos on Friday. Having bowled out the same opposition for a paltry 34 on the same venue last week, Emperors will go into the semi-final with a lot of confidence. They have the likes of Amit Patil, Prayag Bhati, Kartik Bhatia, who have the ability to hit big.
Weaknesses: Not the most reliable batting unit in the tournament. They really made tough work of a modest target of 119 against Sindhudurg Sailors on Wednesday, and it’s going to get even tougher now against a very experienced bowling unit of Supremos. Emperors easily gave away 12-15 runs with their poor fielding against Sailors on Wednesday, and that kind of margin could easily prove the difference between winning and losing in a format like T20
PRATAPGAD WARRIORS
Strengths: This season, as well as the past two seasons, Warriors have been known as one of the best bowling unit in the MPL. They have the best bowler in Maharashtra, Samad Fallah, spearheading the attack, have a very smart new-ball partner for Fallah in Sanjay Pardeshi, and have a very accurate left-arm spinner in Salil Agharkar. Where they have been really impressive this season is with their batting, which hasn’t always been appreciated in the past. They comfortably chased down a stiff looking target of 191 against Shivneri Lions under pressure on Wednesday with an over to spare. The likes of Shehzad Fakih, Parag More, Rohit Karanjkar have all done well with the bat in different games.
Weaknesses: The form of last year’s batsman of the tournament, Swapnil Gugale. Gugale, who opens the batting, means a lot to the Warriors batting line-up, and if he, More and Fakih don’t score heavily, Warriors don’t have a lot of big hitters in the lower order to come up with a big total. Their bowlers looked a bit rattled against Shivneri Lions batting line-up on Wednesday, and if Fallah fails to take wickets with the new ball, Warriors are not the same bowling unit.
RAIGAD ROYALS
Strengths: A very well balanced batting side. With one of Maharashtra’s best batsman-- Harshad khadiwale-- opening the innings alongside State Ranji skipper Rohit Motwani, once can’t ask for better. With the likes of Nikhil Paradkar, Sangram Atitkar, Shrikant Mundhe, it’s a batting unit that anyone would fear. Royals bat deep, with genuine opener Rohan Bhosale often ending up batting at No 8. Mundhe, Salelkar and Paradkar form the core of the bowling unit, all known for their accuracy and wicket-taking abilities. Royals are definitely one of the best fielding sides in the tournament, with the likes of Digamber Waghmare easily saving 10-15 runs in every game.
Weaknesses: Losing their last league game, against Sinhagad Supremos on Wednesday, wasn’t the ideal preparation for the knockouts. Their bowlers conceded more than 200 runs against Supremos, and managed to get just four wickets, which is surely a cause of worry for Royals’ English coach Dermot Reeve.
The semi-finals will be played on Friday, where defending champions Sinhagad Supremos will take on the first-time semi-finalists Devgiri Emperors, while the other semi-final will see a repeat of the MPL-2009 final, between Raigad Royals and Pratapgad Warriors.
We take a closer look at the four teams involved, their record in the tournament, their strengths and weaknesses.
SINHAGAD SUPREMOS
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Vishant More
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Strengths: The defending champions finished top in the league stage with 22 points and lost only one of their seven games. They have batted well as a unit, and smashed their way to an imposing 202 for 4 in their last league game against Raigad Royals on Wednesday. Opener Vishant More, skipper Ganesh Gaikwad, middle-order batsman Mansingh Nigde, all-rounder Azhar Ansari have all batted well at different stages of the tournament, which gives Supremos a nice balance. Last year’s bowler of the tournament Jitendra Patil has been among wickets with his left-arm pace, and left-arm spinner Akshay Darekar has been absolutely brilliant throughout the tournament.
Weaknesses: Despite being a superb batting unit, Supremos were bowled out for a MPL lowest of 34 during the league stage. Another disastrous batting eprformance like that against the same opposition on Friday could end their MPL campaign. They have got three excellent T20 bowlers in Patil, Darekar and Gaikwad. However, oppositions have often exposed the other two bowlers. Lack of quality fourth and fifth bowler almost cost Supremos the game against Royals on Wednesday despite scoring a massive 202 batting first.
DEVGIRI EMPERORS
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Chetan Suryavanshi
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Strengths: A superb bowling unit, led by the new-ball duo of Kishore Bhikane and Sajin Sureshnath. Bhikane and Sureshnath have enjoyed bowling on the Poona Club track that has been helpful for seamers, and that’s the venue for Emperors semi-final against Supremos on Friday. Having bowled out the same opposition for a paltry 34 on the same venue last week, Emperors will go into the semi-final with a lot of confidence. They have the likes of Amit Patil, Prayag Bhati, Kartik Bhatia, who have the ability to hit big.
Weaknesses: Not the most reliable batting unit in the tournament. They really made tough work of a modest target of 119 against Sindhudurg Sailors on Wednesday, and it’s going to get even tougher now against a very experienced bowling unit of Supremos. Emperors easily gave away 12-15 runs with their poor fielding against Sailors on Wednesday, and that kind of margin could easily prove the difference between winning and losing in a format like T20
PRATAPGAD WARRIORS
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Parag More
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Strengths: This season, as well as the past two seasons, Warriors have been known as one of the best bowling unit in the MPL. They have the best bowler in Maharashtra, Samad Fallah, spearheading the attack, have a very smart new-ball partner for Fallah in Sanjay Pardeshi, and have a very accurate left-arm spinner in Salil Agharkar. Where they have been really impressive this season is with their batting, which hasn’t always been appreciated in the past. They comfortably chased down a stiff looking target of 191 against Shivneri Lions under pressure on Wednesday with an over to spare. The likes of Shehzad Fakih, Parag More, Rohit Karanjkar have all done well with the bat in different games.
Weaknesses: The form of last year’s batsman of the tournament, Swapnil Gugale. Gugale, who opens the batting, means a lot to the Warriors batting line-up, and if he, More and Fakih don’t score heavily, Warriors don’t have a lot of big hitters in the lower order to come up with a big total. Their bowlers looked a bit rattled against Shivneri Lions batting line-up on Wednesday, and if Fallah fails to take wickets with the new ball, Warriors are not the same bowling unit.
RAIGAD ROYALS
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Rohit Motwani
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Strengths: A very well balanced batting side. With one of Maharashtra’s best batsman-- Harshad khadiwale-- opening the innings alongside State Ranji skipper Rohit Motwani, once can’t ask for better. With the likes of Nikhil Paradkar, Sangram Atitkar, Shrikant Mundhe, it’s a batting unit that anyone would fear. Royals bat deep, with genuine opener Rohan Bhosale often ending up batting at No 8. Mundhe, Salelkar and Paradkar form the core of the bowling unit, all known for their accuracy and wicket-taking abilities. Royals are definitely one of the best fielding sides in the tournament, with the likes of Digamber Waghmare easily saving 10-15 runs in every game.
Weaknesses: Losing their last league game, against Sinhagad Supremos on Wednesday, wasn’t the ideal preparation for the knockouts. Their bowlers conceded more than 200 runs against Supremos, and managed to get just four wickets, which is surely a cause of worry for Royals’ English coach Dermot Reeve.
Karkhanis, Patil impress in Tondi Cricket
After 28 league matches, panel picks Aurangabad and Kolhapur commentators for semifinals.
Seven days of intense cricket and commentating saw Mrugendra Patil from Kolhapur and Nitin Karkhanis from Aurangabad impress the panel with their presentation and speaking skills to qualify for the next stage of the talent hunt in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League Tondi Cricket.
The two emerged way ahead of the other two as their live presentations and tapes of interviews were found to impress the panel of judges formed by the MPL Organizing Committee and Radio Mirchi.
Patil and Karkhanis will now host the semifinal matches to be held on October 7. They will also give live OBs on Radio Mirchi.
The MPL had auditions in four cities and the four winners were picked to do various activities during the league stage of the tournament. Prasad Dongare from Nasik and Sagar Pednekar from Pune were the other two.
The four contestants were assigned a schedule of a match a day and rotated between Poona Club and Deccan Gymkhana. They conducted the toss, gave score updates, engaged the audience through Kool Catch, conducted the post-match presentations.
Each commentator also interviewed the team captions, franchisee owners, fans, players, coaches and even the generally unappreciated umpires and groundsmen.
Karkhanis and Patil will now be interacting with well-known anchor Gaurav Kapoor on the day of the Cottonking MPL Final on October 9.
On the final day, the winner of Tondi Cricket will be announced by Kapoor. The eventual winner will be hosting the presentation ceremony alongside Gaurav Kapoor.
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| Patil and Karkhanis will now host the semifinal matches to be held on October 7 |
Seven days of intense cricket and commentating saw Mrugendra Patil from Kolhapur and Nitin Karkhanis from Aurangabad impress the panel with their presentation and speaking skills to qualify for the next stage of the talent hunt in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League Tondi Cricket.
The two emerged way ahead of the other two as their live presentations and tapes of interviews were found to impress the panel of judges formed by the MPL Organizing Committee and Radio Mirchi.
Patil and Karkhanis will now host the semifinal matches to be held on October 7. They will also give live OBs on Radio Mirchi.
The MPL had auditions in four cities and the four winners were picked to do various activities during the league stage of the tournament. Prasad Dongare from Nasik and Sagar Pednekar from Pune were the other two.
The four contestants were assigned a schedule of a match a day and rotated between Poona Club and Deccan Gymkhana. They conducted the toss, gave score updates, engaged the audience through Kool Catch, conducted the post-match presentations.
Each commentator also interviewed the team captions, franchisee owners, fans, players, coaches and even the generally unappreciated umpires and groundsmen.
Karkhanis and Patil will now be interacting with well-known anchor Gaurav Kapoor on the day of the Cottonking MPL Final on October 9.
On the final day, the winner of Tondi Cricket will be announced by Kapoor. The eventual winner will be hosting the presentation ceremony alongside Gaurav Kapoor.
Emperors seal the last semi-final spot
PUNE, OCTOBER 5: Going into their last league game, against Sindhudurg Sailors, the equation for the Devgiri Emperors was quite simple. Win the game, and make it to semis, irrespective of the results in the other game. And that’s what they did, even if not in the most convincing fashion.
But the four points that they earned for their four-wicket win at the Poona Club on Wednesday evening, took Emperors tally to 16 points, as they finished fourth in the points table to take the last available semi-final spot. In the semi-finals tot be played on Friday, Emperors will take on defending champions Sinhagad Supremos, while the other semi-final will see the repeat of the 2009 final, between Raigad Royals and Pratapgad Warriors.
After Sindhudurg Sailors won the toss and elected to bat, Emperors bowled accurately and restricted their opponents to 118. The Amit Patil-led unit, however, made heavy work of their chase, and at one stage looked like going out, before two Kartik Bhatia sixes saw they home with five balls to spare.
Kishore Bhikane was the wrecker-in-chief for Emperors, finishing with figures of 4-17, as a confused looking Sailors ended up scoring 118 for 8 in 20 overs.
Sailors, who were little cautious to start with, scored just 24 runs in the first six overs of powerful. Opener Vikrant Nimhan scored a 30-ball 31, while a 13-ball 14 each by Mahesh Arkal and Gopal Gurkhude (who remained not out) saw them get close to the 120-run mark
With opener Sumit Chavan (40 runs, 41 balls), and Amit Patil (40 runs, 44 balls) adding 58 runs for the second wicket, Emperos looked well on course for a comfortable win. But the loss of Patil, Prayag Bhati and Soloman Chopade in the space of nine balls for just five runs turned the game in favour of Sailors.
With 18 runs needed of the last two overs, Sailors skipper Rahul Tripathy played a gamble of holding back his best bowler, Pushkaraj Joshi back for the last over, and it backfired. Bhatia smacked left-arm spinner Vikrant Nimhan for two big sixes in the midwicket region to end the game as a contest, before Mandar Dhumke completed the formalities on the first ball of the last over.
Brief scores: Sindhudurg Sailors 118 for 8 in 20 overs (Vikrant Nimhan 31, Rahul Tripathy 20, Kishore Bhikane 4-17) lost to Devgiri Emperors 121 for 6 in 19.1 overs (Sumit Chavan 40, Amit Patil 40, Imran Sayyed 3-24).
Toss: Sindhudurg Sailors, who elected to bat
Man-of-the-Match: Kishore Bhikane (Devgiri Emperors)
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But the four points that they earned for their four-wicket win at the Poona Club on Wednesday evening, took Emperors tally to 16 points, as they finished fourth in the points table to take the last available semi-final spot. In the semi-finals tot be played on Friday, Emperors will take on defending champions Sinhagad Supremos, while the other semi-final will see the repeat of the 2009 final, between Raigad Royals and Pratapgad Warriors.
After Sindhudurg Sailors won the toss and elected to bat, Emperors bowled accurately and restricted their opponents to 118. The Amit Patil-led unit, however, made heavy work of their chase, and at one stage looked like going out, before two Kartik Bhatia sixes saw they home with five balls to spare.
Kishore Bhikane was the wrecker-in-chief for Emperors, finishing with figures of 4-17, as a confused looking Sailors ended up scoring 118 for 8 in 20 overs.
Sailors, who were little cautious to start with, scored just 24 runs in the first six overs of powerful. Opener Vikrant Nimhan scored a 30-ball 31, while a 13-ball 14 each by Mahesh Arkal and Gopal Gurkhude (who remained not out) saw them get close to the 120-run mark
With opener Sumit Chavan (40 runs, 41 balls), and Amit Patil (40 runs, 44 balls) adding 58 runs for the second wicket, Emperos looked well on course for a comfortable win. But the loss of Patil, Prayag Bhati and Soloman Chopade in the space of nine balls for just five runs turned the game in favour of Sailors.
With 18 runs needed of the last two overs, Sailors skipper Rahul Tripathy played a gamble of holding back his best bowler, Pushkaraj Joshi back for the last over, and it backfired. Bhatia smacked left-arm spinner Vikrant Nimhan for two big sixes in the midwicket region to end the game as a contest, before Mandar Dhumke completed the formalities on the first ball of the last over.
Brief scores: Sindhudurg Sailors 118 for 8 in 20 overs (Vikrant Nimhan 31, Rahul Tripathy 20, Kishore Bhikane 4-17) lost to Devgiri Emperors 121 for 6 in 19.1 overs (Sumit Chavan 40, Amit Patil 40, Imran Sayyed 3-24).
Toss: Sindhudurg Sailors, who elected to bat
Man-of-the-Match: Kishore Bhikane (Devgiri Emperors)
Torna’s convincing win not enough
PUNE, OCTOBER 5: Torna Tigers did what was in their control, that is winning their last game against Panhala Panthers with a good net run-rate to have a chance of making it to the last four.
The luck, however, didn’t favour them, as Devgiri Emperors beat Sindhudurg Sailors to seal the fourth and the last available semi-final spot on Wednesday.
Torna Tigers beat Panhala Panthers by six wickets with 5.4 overs to spare in the morning game at Poona Club, only to be overtaken by Emperors in the afternoon game at the same venue.
On the Poona Club track that has been difficult to bat in the first innings of the morning game, Torna Tigers won a very good toss and elected to field. Panthers had a terrible start in conditions where ball was seaming a bit, and lost opener Arshad Pendhari, Vinayak Renuse and Tushar Shrivastav with just 25 runs on the board by the end of the fifth over. They went from 22 for no loss to 25 for three within the space of 11 balls, with Karan Nande striking twice in one over.
Panthers just didn’t get any partnerships going, as Man-of-the-Match Vipul Jeurkar fought a lone battle. It was only because of Jeurkar’s run-a-ball 50 that Panthers managed to get past the 100-run mark. Except for Jeurkar, only three other Panthers’ batsmen got into double figures. Naseer Momin, Karan Nande and Ajinkya Joshi got two wickets each for Torna Tigers, as Panthers’ innings folded up for 112 in the 19th over.
Torna were always in command of their chase, with skipper Ajinkya Joshi and Kedar Jadhav smashing 53 runs for the opening wicket in 6.3 overs. Jadhav smacked seven fours in his 18-ball 34, while Joshi played a smart supporting role with a 25-ball 27. After both the openers and Karan Nande were dismissed, left-hander Saurabh Shinghvi took the job of a finisher on himself, and played it to perfection. His 31 not out came off just 18 deliveries, as Tigers raced to the target in 14.2 overs, which helped them improve their net run-rate. Shinghvi hit Panthers’ premium pacer Anupam Sanklecha for a six over fine-leg, to end the match in style.
Brief scores: Panhala Panthers 112 all out in 18.4 overs (Vipul Jeurkar 50 n.o. Naseer Momin 2-15, Karan Nande 2-11, Ajinkya Joshi 2-11) lost to Torna Tigers 113 for 4 in 14.2 overs (Kedar Jadhav 34, Sourabh Shinghvi 31 n.o. Ajinkya Joshi 25).
Toss: Torna, who elected to field
Man-of-the-Match: Vipul Jeurkar ( 50 n.o)
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| Kedar Jadhav of Torna Tigers Gave a Good Start to the Team Scoring 34 Runs off 18 Balls |
The luck, however, didn’t favour them, as Devgiri Emperors beat Sindhudurg Sailors to seal the fourth and the last available semi-final spot on Wednesday.
Torna Tigers beat Panhala Panthers by six wickets with 5.4 overs to spare in the morning game at Poona Club, only to be overtaken by Emperors in the afternoon game at the same venue.
On the Poona Club track that has been difficult to bat in the first innings of the morning game, Torna Tigers won a very good toss and elected to field. Panthers had a terrible start in conditions where ball was seaming a bit, and lost opener Arshad Pendhari, Vinayak Renuse and Tushar Shrivastav with just 25 runs on the board by the end of the fifth over. They went from 22 for no loss to 25 for three within the space of 11 balls, with Karan Nande striking twice in one over.
Panthers just didn’t get any partnerships going, as Man-of-the-Match Vipul Jeurkar fought a lone battle. It was only because of Jeurkar’s run-a-ball 50 that Panthers managed to get past the 100-run mark. Except for Jeurkar, only three other Panthers’ batsmen got into double figures. Naseer Momin, Karan Nande and Ajinkya Joshi got two wickets each for Torna Tigers, as Panthers’ innings folded up for 112 in the 19th over.
Torna were always in command of their chase, with skipper Ajinkya Joshi and Kedar Jadhav smashing 53 runs for the opening wicket in 6.3 overs. Jadhav smacked seven fours in his 18-ball 34, while Joshi played a smart supporting role with a 25-ball 27. After both the openers and Karan Nande were dismissed, left-hander Saurabh Shinghvi took the job of a finisher on himself, and played it to perfection. His 31 not out came off just 18 deliveries, as Tigers raced to the target in 14.2 overs, which helped them improve their net run-rate. Shinghvi hit Panthers’ premium pacer Anupam Sanklecha for a six over fine-leg, to end the match in style.
Brief scores: Panhala Panthers 112 all out in 18.4 overs (Vipul Jeurkar 50 n.o. Naseer Momin 2-15, Karan Nande 2-11, Ajinkya Joshi 2-11) lost to Torna Tigers 113 for 4 in 14.2 overs (Kedar Jadhav 34, Sourabh Shinghvi 31 n.o. Ajinkya Joshi 25).
Toss: Torna, who elected to field
Man-of-the-Match: Vipul Jeurkar ( 50 n.o)
Supremos beat Royals in high-scoring blizzard
Vishant More and Ganesh Gaikwad put up MPL’s second century partnership of the day
PUNE, OCTOBER 5: It was a grudge match between last year’s finalists, Sinhagad Supremos and Raigad Royals, and as it turned out the otherwise inconsequential tie in respect of qualifying for the semi-finals, produced as many fireworks before the defending champion Supremos scored a nail-biting four-run win at the Deccan Gymkhana Ground.
After six matches were wiped out at Deccan Gymkhana due to rain and wet conditions, Wednesday was a day to remember as the two matches produced 783 runs from 79 overs and only 20 wickets fell making it the favourite venue for the semifinals.
Raigad Royals captain Rohit Motwani won the toss and put Supremos in to bat, but his decision to chase seemed to turn on head as Vishant More and Ganesh Gaikwad went hammer and tongs to set up a huge target as Sinhagad scored 202 for four in the allotted 20 overs.
Knowing well that a win would put them on top of the table with 22 points, Raigad began their chase doggedly after Harshad Khadiwale returned to pavilion after scoring only seven runs. Motwani and Shrikant Munde, however, steadied their ship for a while but after their 48-run stand ended Raigad struggled to get a steady partnership even as their chase for the target remained well on course.
Mundhe (31) was out to Sagar Sawant giving an easy catch behind to Vishant More, while Motwani was four man to go, stumped by More off Ganesh Gaikwad after scoring 41. Nikhil Paradkar’s 27 and Digambar Waghmare’s 34 kept Royals’ hopes alive, but when last man came in the final over, the tailenders messed up and they fell short by four runs.
Sinhagad would thank their stars after Motwani handed them a chance to bat first. Opener More and captain Ganesh Gaikwad got together to score 113 runs for the second wicket to set the base. Both got out in a space of two runs, but Mansingh Nigade (37 not out) and Vishal Bhilare (42 not out) made sure that the tempo did not die down as Supremos became first team to cross 200-run mark in this MPL.
Brief Scores
Sinhagad Supremos: 202 for 4; 20 overs (Vishant More 69, Ganesh Gaikwad 40, Mansingh Nigade 37 not out, Vishal Bhilare 42 not out) beat Raigad Royals: 198 all out; 20 overs (Rohit Motwani 41, Shirkant Munde 31, Nikhil Paradkar 27, Digambar Waghmare 34, Sagar Sawant 2-33, Ganesh Gaikwad 2-40, Akshay Darekar 3-23) -- by 4 runs.
Toss: Royals won, decided to field.
Man-of-the-match: Vishant More (Sinhagad Supremos).
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| Vishant More from Sinhagad Supremos scored a fiery 69 runs off 37 balls enabling Supremos to post 202 in 20 overs |
PUNE, OCTOBER 5: It was a grudge match between last year’s finalists, Sinhagad Supremos and Raigad Royals, and as it turned out the otherwise inconsequential tie in respect of qualifying for the semi-finals, produced as many fireworks before the defending champion Supremos scored a nail-biting four-run win at the Deccan Gymkhana Ground.
After six matches were wiped out at Deccan Gymkhana due to rain and wet conditions, Wednesday was a day to remember as the two matches produced 783 runs from 79 overs and only 20 wickets fell making it the favourite venue for the semifinals.
Raigad Royals captain Rohit Motwani won the toss and put Supremos in to bat, but his decision to chase seemed to turn on head as Vishant More and Ganesh Gaikwad went hammer and tongs to set up a huge target as Sinhagad scored 202 for four in the allotted 20 overs.
Knowing well that a win would put them on top of the table with 22 points, Raigad began their chase doggedly after Harshad Khadiwale returned to pavilion after scoring only seven runs. Motwani and Shrikant Munde, however, steadied their ship for a while but after their 48-run stand ended Raigad struggled to get a steady partnership even as their chase for the target remained well on course.
Mundhe (31) was out to Sagar Sawant giving an easy catch behind to Vishant More, while Motwani was four man to go, stumped by More off Ganesh Gaikwad after scoring 41. Nikhil Paradkar’s 27 and Digambar Waghmare’s 34 kept Royals’ hopes alive, but when last man came in the final over, the tailenders messed up and they fell short by four runs.
Sinhagad would thank their stars after Motwani handed them a chance to bat first. Opener More and captain Ganesh Gaikwad got together to score 113 runs for the second wicket to set the base. Both got out in a space of two runs, but Mansingh Nigade (37 not out) and Vishal Bhilare (42 not out) made sure that the tempo did not die down as Supremos became first team to cross 200-run mark in this MPL.
Brief Scores
Sinhagad Supremos: 202 for 4; 20 overs (Vishant More 69, Ganesh Gaikwad 40, Mansingh Nigade 37 not out, Vishal Bhilare 42 not out) beat Raigad Royals: 198 all out; 20 overs (Rohit Motwani 41, Shirkant Munde 31, Nikhil Paradkar 27, Digambar Waghmare 34, Sagar Sawant 2-33, Ganesh Gaikwad 2-40, Akshay Darekar 3-23) -- by 4 runs.
Toss: Royals won, decided to field.
Man-of-the-match: Vishant More (Sinhagad Supremos).
Warriors fight past Lions, Enter SF
Fakih-More share 107-run stand for second wicket with skipper Parag More to chase huge target
PUNE, OCTOBER 5: Opener Shehzad Fakih and skipper Parag More smashed entertaining half-centuries to put together first century partnership of the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League to put Pratapgad Warriors firmly in the semifinal saddle at the Deccan Gymkhana ground.
Warriors’ seven-wicket win against Shivneri Lions took their points tally to 18 at the end of the league phase of seven matches that ensured Pratapgad a place in the last four of the MPL-3.
In a high-scoring match, a win for Shivneri Lions would have put them in contention of the fourth semifinal spot. And, the way they charted their innings after being put in to bat by scoring 191 for three in the allotted 20 overs, it seemed the task was cut out for the Warriors.
It was not to be so when Pratapgad began their chase even as they lost their first wicket in the form of Swapnil Gugale, with just 22 runs on board. That brought More into picture and the skipper jelled nicely with Fakih to put on a memorable innings that left the sparse crowd asking for more.
If Fakih played somewhat restrained but sensible knock, burly More went for big hits forcing Shivneri on leather hunt. Fakih scored 74 in 55 balls with 12 fours, while More was more belligerent in his 36-ball 63 with four boundaries and five sixes as the two put on 107 runs for the second wicket to set the base for challenging chase.
After Fakih was out caught by wicketkeeper Avdhoot Dandekar off Naushad Shaikh, More showed no concern and was given able backing by Rohit Karanjkar (32 not out) as the two put together 38 runs for the third wicket before More’s wicket was castled by Kunal Sawant.
Pratapgad still needed 25 runs to win and had just 2.3 overs to achieve the target, but Karanjkar and former captain Satyajit Satbhai (7 not out) saw to it that the target was achieved with one full over to spare.
Earlier, Shivneri made full use of the batting track as the new ball bowlers struggled to extract any movement from dried-up wicket. Naushad Shaikh returned early, but Avdhoot Dandekar (23) and Mohit Kapur put up 48 runs for the second wicket before Kapur and Kaustubh Patil added 59 runs for third wicket on a day that bowlers would like to forget.
Brief Scores
Shivneri Lions: 191 for 3 (Mohit Kapur 68, Taranjeet Singh 46 n.o, Kaustub Patil 41 n.o; Sunil Yadav 2/39) lost to Pratapgad Warriors: 192 for 3; 19 overs (Shehzad Fakih 74, Parag More 63, Rohit Karanjkar 32 n.o) -- by 7 wkts
Toss: Warriors won, decided to field
Man of The Match: Shehzad Fakih (Warriors)
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| Shehzad Fakih lofting one for six against the Lions |
PUNE, OCTOBER 5: Opener Shehzad Fakih and skipper Parag More smashed entertaining half-centuries to put together first century partnership of the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League to put Pratapgad Warriors firmly in the semifinal saddle at the Deccan Gymkhana ground.
Warriors’ seven-wicket win against Shivneri Lions took their points tally to 18 at the end of the league phase of seven matches that ensured Pratapgad a place in the last four of the MPL-3.
In a high-scoring match, a win for Shivneri Lions would have put them in contention of the fourth semifinal spot. And, the way they charted their innings after being put in to bat by scoring 191 for three in the allotted 20 overs, it seemed the task was cut out for the Warriors.
It was not to be so when Pratapgad began their chase even as they lost their first wicket in the form of Swapnil Gugale, with just 22 runs on board. That brought More into picture and the skipper jelled nicely with Fakih to put on a memorable innings that left the sparse crowd asking for more.
If Fakih played somewhat restrained but sensible knock, burly More went for big hits forcing Shivneri on leather hunt. Fakih scored 74 in 55 balls with 12 fours, while More was more belligerent in his 36-ball 63 with four boundaries and five sixes as the two put on 107 runs for the second wicket to set the base for challenging chase.
After Fakih was out caught by wicketkeeper Avdhoot Dandekar off Naushad Shaikh, More showed no concern and was given able backing by Rohit Karanjkar (32 not out) as the two put together 38 runs for the third wicket before More’s wicket was castled by Kunal Sawant.
Pratapgad still needed 25 runs to win and had just 2.3 overs to achieve the target, but Karanjkar and former captain Satyajit Satbhai (7 not out) saw to it that the target was achieved with one full over to spare.
Earlier, Shivneri made full use of the batting track as the new ball bowlers struggled to extract any movement from dried-up wicket. Naushad Shaikh returned early, but Avdhoot Dandekar (23) and Mohit Kapur put up 48 runs for the second wicket before Kapur and Kaustubh Patil added 59 runs for third wicket on a day that bowlers would like to forget.
Brief Scores
Shivneri Lions: 191 for 3 (Mohit Kapur 68, Taranjeet Singh 46 n.o, Kaustub Patil 41 n.o; Sunil Yadav 2/39) lost to Pratapgad Warriors: 192 for 3; 19 overs (Shehzad Fakih 74, Parag More 63, Rohit Karanjkar 32 n.o) -- by 7 wkts
Toss: Warriors won, decided to field
Man of The Match: Shehzad Fakih (Warriors)
HEAD TO HEAD: DAY 6
MATCH 21: Deccan Gymkhana: Pratapgad Warriors 2-0 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Warriors won by 27-runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
25/5/2010 (L): Warriors won by 5-wkts -- Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A-L
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
: 2011: W-L-A-A-A-L
________________________________________________________
MATCH 22: Deccan Gymkhana: Raigad Royals 2-1 Sinhagad Supremos
RESULTS
08/5/2009 (L): Supremos won by 7-wkts -- Deccan Gymkhana
12/5/2009 (S): Royals won by 6-runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
22/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 34 runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A-W
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2011: W-W-A-W-L-W
________________________________________________________
MATCH 23: Poona Club: Panhala Panthers 2-0 Torna Tigers
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Panthers won by 4-wkts -- PYC Gymkhana
22/5/2010 (L): Panthers won by 2-wkts -- Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
: 2011: L-L-A-L-A-L
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
: 2011: L-A-A-L-A-W
________________________________________________________
MATCH 24: Poona Club: Devgiri Emperors 1-1 Sindhudurg Sailors
RESULTS
08/5/2009 (L): Sailors won by 5 wkts -- PYC Gymkhana
22/5/2010 (L): Emperors won by 18-runs -- Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A-A-W-L
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
: 2011: L-A-A-A-A-W
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final; W – Win; L – Loss; A - Abandoned
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Warriors won by 27-runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
25/5/2010 (L): Warriors won by 5-wkts -- Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A-L
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
: 2011: W-L-A-A-A-L
________________________________________________________
MATCH 22: Deccan Gymkhana: Raigad Royals 2-1 Sinhagad Supremos
RESULTS
08/5/2009 (L): Supremos won by 7-wkts -- Deccan Gymkhana
12/5/2009 (S): Royals won by 6-runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
22/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 34 runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A-W
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2011: W-W-A-W-L-W
________________________________________________________
MATCH 23: Poona Club: Panhala Panthers 2-0 Torna Tigers
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Panthers won by 4-wkts -- PYC Gymkhana
22/5/2010 (L): Panthers won by 2-wkts -- Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
: 2011: L-L-A-L-A-L
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
: 2011: L-A-A-L-A-W
________________________________________________________
MATCH 24: Poona Club: Devgiri Emperors 1-1 Sindhudurg Sailors
RESULTS
08/5/2009 (L): Sailors won by 5 wkts -- PYC Gymkhana
22/5/2010 (L): Emperors won by 18-runs -- Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A-A-W-L
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
: 2011: L-A-A-A-A-W
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final; W – Win; L – Loss; A - Abandoned
DAY 7: SNAPPY LOOK AT ACTION
Total Runs : 961
Wickets : 49
Overs : 134.1
Highest Score (Team) : Torna Tigers -- 178 for 8 (20 overs
Lowest Score (Team) : Pratapgad Warriors -- 85 all out (10 overs)
Biggest Win: Devgiri Emperors bt Sinhagad Supremos -- by 8-wkts
Narrow Win: - Sinhagad Supremos bt Pratapgad Warriors -- by 5-wkts
Highest Ind. Score : Rohit Motwani (Raigad Royals; 68 runs)
Best Bowling : Pushkaraj Joshi (Devgiri Emperors; 4/17)
Half Centuries (3) : Rohit Motwani (Royals), Karan Nande (Tigers); Taranjeet Singh (Lions)
Top Scores of Day : 68 - Rohit Motwani (Royals; 37 balls); 67 – Karan Nande (Tigers; 43 balls); 61 - Taranjeet Singh (Lions; 29 balls)
Best Partnership : 82 (39 balls) - 1st wicket Harshad Khadiwale/ Rohit Motwani (Royals)
Best Bowling Spell : 4-0-12-3 by Sunil Yadav (Pratapgad Warriors)
Win Toss, Lose Game: Devgiri Emperors, Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
Match 25: Torna Tigers bt Devgiri Emperors – by 80 runs
Match 26: Sinhagad Supremos bt Pratapgad Warriors – by 5-wkts
Match 27: Sindhudurg Sailors bt Panhala Panthers – by 8 wkts
Match 28: Raigad Royals bt Shivneri Lions – by 8 wkts
Wickets : 49
Overs : 134.1
Highest Score (Team) : Torna Tigers -- 178 for 8 (20 overs
Lowest Score (Team) : Pratapgad Warriors -- 85 all out (10 overs)
Biggest Win: Devgiri Emperors bt Sinhagad Supremos -- by 8-wkts
Narrow Win: - Sinhagad Supremos bt Pratapgad Warriors -- by 5-wkts
Highest Ind. Score : Rohit Motwani (Raigad Royals; 68 runs)
Best Bowling : Pushkaraj Joshi (Devgiri Emperors; 4/17)
Half Centuries (3) : Rohit Motwani (Royals), Karan Nande (Tigers); Taranjeet Singh (Lions)
Top Scores of Day : 68 - Rohit Motwani (Royals; 37 balls); 67 – Karan Nande (Tigers; 43 balls); 61 - Taranjeet Singh (Lions; 29 balls)
Best Partnership : 82 (39 balls) - 1st wicket Harshad Khadiwale/ Rohit Motwani (Royals)
Best Bowling Spell : 4-0-12-3 by Sunil Yadav (Pratapgad Warriors)
Win Toss, Lose Game: Devgiri Emperors, Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
Match 25: Torna Tigers bt Devgiri Emperors – by 80 runs
Match 26: Sinhagad Supremos bt Pratapgad Warriors – by 5-wkts
Match 27: Sindhudurg Sailors bt Panhala Panthers – by 8 wkts
Match 28: Raigad Royals bt Shivneri Lions – by 8 wkts
Royals show the way, enter SF
Successfully chase 168 to go atop standings in a game of several MPL-3 firsts
PUNE, OCTOBER 4: Harshad Khadiwale finally got going after a string of failures and with skipper Rohit Motwani playing a gem of an innings which resulted in Raigad Royals strolling past Shivneri Lions by eight wickets after the 168-run target set by the latter seemed an easy-go.
Royals, thus, made it to make it to the semifinals of the Maharashtra Premier League at the Poona Club ground in a match that had both teams top-scorers – Taranjeet Singh (Lions) and Motwani (Royals) score their career-bests respectively.
While the match produced the maximum runs (339 combined) of the tournament so far by two teams, the Royals reply was studded with the best partnership – 82 for the opening wicket between Khadiwale-Motwani of MPL-3 as well.
Royals, now, share the top-spot with Supremos on points and continued to be the consistant team in MPL with a third show in the last-4.
Despite losing the toss and allowing Shivneri Lions to post a challenging total of 168 for five, Royals always looked to be in control as they romped home without much fuss unlike in other matches where chasing team also lost easy wickets.
Nonetheless, Shivneri had a rueful start to their innings as they were down to three wickets with just 14 runs on the board as Sunil Patel struck thrice, but Mohit Kapur and Chetan Telang put on 67 runs for the fourth wicket to provide some semblance to the score.
Towards the end, it was Taranjit Singh, who completed a remarkable recovery for Lions with an unbeaten 61 in just 29 balls to power his side to 168.
But Taranjit’s good effort went in vain as Royals made short work of the otherwise imposing target to romp home with 19 balls to spare and losing just two wickets in the process.
Motwani gave his team a flying start with two boundaries in the first over and his partner Khadiwale also got into the rhythm soon after as they raced to 72 for no loss after power plays concluded. Motwani batted sensibly but still scored the bulk of runs initially by finding gaps at will and also hitting an odd six over midwicket.
Khadiwale raised his own tempo hitting Chandan Ranwe for a six and a four and greeting off-spinner Naushad Shaikh with another four and six but top-edged Naushad’s third ball to make a long way back to pavilion after putting up 82 runs for the first wicket in just 6.3 overs.
Motwani brought his fifty with a well-timed mid-wicket boundary off Naushad as Royals reached hundred in the ninth over. Naushad castled Motwani in the 13th over but the damage was already done. The left-hander made 68 off 37 balls with eleven hits to the fence and a six. Royals now just needed 43 runs in 47 balls.
Pravin Deshetty, who was given a reprieve by Niranjan Chavan blasted 42 off 31 balls to steer his team comfortably home along with Nikhil Paradkar (19 not out).
Brief Scores
Shivneri Lions: 168 for 5; 20 overs (Taranjeet Singh 61 n.o; Mohit Kapur 36, Chetan Telang 36; S Patel 3/15) lost to Raigad Royals: 171 for 2; 16.5 overs (Rohit Motwani 68, Pravin DeShetty 42 n.o, Harshad Khadiwale 40; Naushad Shaikh 2/33) - by 8-wkts.
Toss: Lions won, elected to bat
Man-Of-The-Match: Rohit Motwani (Raigad Royals)
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| Royals' Skipper Rohit Motwani Played a Captain's Knock Scoring a Crucial 68 Against the Lions |
PUNE, OCTOBER 4: Harshad Khadiwale finally got going after a string of failures and with skipper Rohit Motwani playing a gem of an innings which resulted in Raigad Royals strolling past Shivneri Lions by eight wickets after the 168-run target set by the latter seemed an easy-go.
Royals, thus, made it to make it to the semifinals of the Maharashtra Premier League at the Poona Club ground in a match that had both teams top-scorers – Taranjeet Singh (Lions) and Motwani (Royals) score their career-bests respectively.
While the match produced the maximum runs (339 combined) of the tournament so far by two teams, the Royals reply was studded with the best partnership – 82 for the opening wicket between Khadiwale-Motwani of MPL-3 as well.
Royals, now, share the top-spot with Supremos on points and continued to be the consistant team in MPL with a third show in the last-4.
Despite losing the toss and allowing Shivneri Lions to post a challenging total of 168 for five, Royals always looked to be in control as they romped home without much fuss unlike in other matches where chasing team also lost easy wickets.
Nonetheless, Shivneri had a rueful start to their innings as they were down to three wickets with just 14 runs on the board as Sunil Patel struck thrice, but Mohit Kapur and Chetan Telang put on 67 runs for the fourth wicket to provide some semblance to the score.
Towards the end, it was Taranjit Singh, who completed a remarkable recovery for Lions with an unbeaten 61 in just 29 balls to power his side to 168.
But Taranjit’s good effort went in vain as Royals made short work of the otherwise imposing target to romp home with 19 balls to spare and losing just two wickets in the process.
Motwani gave his team a flying start with two boundaries in the first over and his partner Khadiwale also got into the rhythm soon after as they raced to 72 for no loss after power plays concluded. Motwani batted sensibly but still scored the bulk of runs initially by finding gaps at will and also hitting an odd six over midwicket.
Khadiwale raised his own tempo hitting Chandan Ranwe for a six and a four and greeting off-spinner Naushad Shaikh with another four and six but top-edged Naushad’s third ball to make a long way back to pavilion after putting up 82 runs for the first wicket in just 6.3 overs.
Motwani brought his fifty with a well-timed mid-wicket boundary off Naushad as Royals reached hundred in the ninth over. Naushad castled Motwani in the 13th over but the damage was already done. The left-hander made 68 off 37 balls with eleven hits to the fence and a six. Royals now just needed 43 runs in 47 balls.
Pravin Deshetty, who was given a reprieve by Niranjan Chavan blasted 42 off 31 balls to steer his team comfortably home along with Nikhil Paradkar (19 not out).
Brief Scores
Shivneri Lions: 168 for 5; 20 overs (Taranjeet Singh 61 n.o; Mohit Kapur 36, Chetan Telang 36; S Patel 3/15) lost to Raigad Royals: 171 for 2; 16.5 overs (Rohit Motwani 68, Pravin DeShetty 42 n.o, Harshad Khadiwale 40; Naushad Shaikh 2/33) - by 8-wkts.
Toss: Lions won, elected to bat
Man-Of-The-Match: Rohit Motwani (Raigad Royals)
Sailors lock Panthers in hold
Pacer Pushkaraj Joshi shines; Sailors ease past Panthers by 8-wkts to keep slim SF hopes
PUNE, OCTOBER 4: Right-arm pacer Pushkaraj Joshi came up with another brilliant bowling spell as Sindhudurg Sailors comfortably defeated Panhala Panthers by eight wickets to keep their slender hopes of making it to semifinals of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) alive.
Joshi, who had come up with the first five-wicket haul of the MPL-2011, against Pratapgad Warriors last week, ran through the Panthers top order to finish with figures of 4/17 at Poona Club.
Panthers, after being put in to bat first, managed to score a meager 85 for 8 in 20 overs, a total that Sailors comfortably chased with 27 balls and eight wickets to spare.
Sailors now have 10 points with one game to go, while Panthers, with just four points, are out of the race for a semi-final spot. Sailors are in a three-way tie with Torna Tigers and Shivneri Lions in fray and run-rate expected to play a decisive role.
Joshi gave Sailors a terrific start, sending back Panthers’ opener Vipul Jeurkar for a duck on the third ball of the innings. 1 for 0 became 1 for 3 in the third over, with Joshi getting rid of Tushar Shrivastav and Manish Desai, both failing to open their account.
It was only because of a fighting knock from Vinayak Renuse (45 runs off 61 balls) that Panthers managed not to get bowled out, and got past the 80-run mark. Renuse’s knock included two fours and as may sixes.
Just when Renuse looked to launch the attack in the death overs, Joshi knocked back his stumps to finish with excellent figures of 4-0-17-4. Apart from Renuse, only Pritish Madhavan (13 not out) managed to get into double figures for Panthers.
Sailors got off to a terrible start, losing opener Chetan Yadav on the second ball of the innings, but one down batsman Sangram Bagul took the responsibility of batting through.
Bagul (48 not out, 56 balls, 7x4) added 47 runs for the second wicket with Santosh Upadhye. His unbroken stand of 40 with skipper Rahul Tripathy (17) took Sailors to a comfortable victory in the 16th over.
Brief Scores
Panhala Panthers: 85 for 8; 20 overs (Vinayak Renuse 45, Pratish Mahadavan 13 n.o; Pushkaraj Joshi 4/17) lost to Sindhudurg Sailors: 88 for 2; 15.3 overs (Sangram Bagul 48 n.o. Rahul Tripathy 17 n.o.) - by 8-wkts
Toss: Sailors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Pushkaraj Joshi (Sindhudurg Sailors)
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Pushkaraj Joshi Wrecked the Panthers Scalping 4/17
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PUNE, OCTOBER 4: Right-arm pacer Pushkaraj Joshi came up with another brilliant bowling spell as Sindhudurg Sailors comfortably defeated Panhala Panthers by eight wickets to keep their slender hopes of making it to semifinals of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) alive.
Joshi, who had come up with the first five-wicket haul of the MPL-2011, against Pratapgad Warriors last week, ran through the Panthers top order to finish with figures of 4/17 at Poona Club.
Panthers, after being put in to bat first, managed to score a meager 85 for 8 in 20 overs, a total that Sailors comfortably chased with 27 balls and eight wickets to spare.
Sailors now have 10 points with one game to go, while Panthers, with just four points, are out of the race for a semi-final spot. Sailors are in a three-way tie with Torna Tigers and Shivneri Lions in fray and run-rate expected to play a decisive role.
Joshi gave Sailors a terrific start, sending back Panthers’ opener Vipul Jeurkar for a duck on the third ball of the innings. 1 for 0 became 1 for 3 in the third over, with Joshi getting rid of Tushar Shrivastav and Manish Desai, both failing to open their account.
It was only because of a fighting knock from Vinayak Renuse (45 runs off 61 balls) that Panthers managed not to get bowled out, and got past the 80-run mark. Renuse’s knock included two fours and as may sixes.
Just when Renuse looked to launch the attack in the death overs, Joshi knocked back his stumps to finish with excellent figures of 4-0-17-4. Apart from Renuse, only Pritish Madhavan (13 not out) managed to get into double figures for Panthers.
Sailors got off to a terrible start, losing opener Chetan Yadav on the second ball of the innings, but one down batsman Sangram Bagul took the responsibility of batting through.
Bagul (48 not out, 56 balls, 7x4) added 47 runs for the second wicket with Santosh Upadhye. His unbroken stand of 40 with skipper Rahul Tripathy (17) took Sailors to a comfortable victory in the 16th over.
Brief Scores
Panhala Panthers: 85 for 8; 20 overs (Vinayak Renuse 45, Pratish Mahadavan 13 n.o; Pushkaraj Joshi 4/17) lost to Sindhudurg Sailors: 88 for 2; 15.3 overs (Sangram Bagul 48 n.o. Rahul Tripathy 17 n.o.) - by 8-wkts
Toss: Sailors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Pushkaraj Joshi (Sindhudurg Sailors)
Supremos back on track, in SF
Defending champs bounce back by capatalising on Warriors batsmen big slip-up
PUNE, OCTOBER 4: Defending champions Sinhagad Supremos bounced back from Sunday’s disaster wherein they were bundled out for 34 as they defeated Pratapgad Warriors by five wickets in yet another low-scoring match at Deccan Gymkhana.
This was a match between two table toppers and after Supremos scored their fourth win from six matches, they are virtually assured of semifinal berth in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League.
Winning the toss seemed to work for Ganesh Gaikwad and his bowlers, specially Akshay Darekar and Sagar Sawant responded well by putting brakes early on. Warriors were so straddled with quick dismissals that four batsmen got run-out while trying to put some cheeky runs on board.
Supremos new ball bowlers, Jitendra Patil and Anant Tambvekar, began superbly and gave nothing away. Although their opening spell saw only two wickets falling, the pressure they created made impact for the first change bowler as Darekar, who turned in a ‘Man-of-the-Match’ performance with his two wickets for 22 runs.
Sagar provided him a perfect support as Pratapgad lost their last seven wickets for mere 25 runs. Parag More with 30 and Shailesh Bhosle (17) were the only Warriors batsmen achieving double-digit score.
Chasing an easy total of 86, Supremos lost half of their side for 59, thanks to a fiery bowling spell by left arm paceman Samad Fallah but Azhar Ansari and Vishal Bhilare saw them through with some applied batting.
Fallah had removed opener Arman Shaikh on the very first ball of the Supremos innings. He gave away only 18 runs in his four overs taking two wickets. Opener Vishant More and middle order batsman Mansingh Nigde did well with a well compiled innings.
Brief Scores
Pratapgad Warriors: 85 all out; 15.3 overs (Parag More 30 n.o; Sagar Sawant 2/22, Akshay Darekar 3/22) bt Sinhagad Supremos: 88 for 5; 16.2 overs (Mansingh Nigde 21, Ameya Srikhande 18; Sunil Yadav 3/12) -- by 5-wkts
Toss: Supremos won, decided to field
Man-of-The-Match: Akshay Darekar (Sinhagad Supremos)
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Supremos registered a comfortable win against Warriors
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PUNE, OCTOBER 4: Defending champions Sinhagad Supremos bounced back from Sunday’s disaster wherein they were bundled out for 34 as they defeated Pratapgad Warriors by five wickets in yet another low-scoring match at Deccan Gymkhana.
This was a match between two table toppers and after Supremos scored their fourth win from six matches, they are virtually assured of semifinal berth in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League.
Winning the toss seemed to work for Ganesh Gaikwad and his bowlers, specially Akshay Darekar and Sagar Sawant responded well by putting brakes early on. Warriors were so straddled with quick dismissals that four batsmen got run-out while trying to put some cheeky runs on board.
Supremos new ball bowlers, Jitendra Patil and Anant Tambvekar, began superbly and gave nothing away. Although their opening spell saw only two wickets falling, the pressure they created made impact for the first change bowler as Darekar, who turned in a ‘Man-of-the-Match’ performance with his two wickets for 22 runs.
Sagar provided him a perfect support as Pratapgad lost their last seven wickets for mere 25 runs. Parag More with 30 and Shailesh Bhosle (17) were the only Warriors batsmen achieving double-digit score.
Chasing an easy total of 86, Supremos lost half of their side for 59, thanks to a fiery bowling spell by left arm paceman Samad Fallah but Azhar Ansari and Vishal Bhilare saw them through with some applied batting.
Fallah had removed opener Arman Shaikh on the very first ball of the Supremos innings. He gave away only 18 runs in his four overs taking two wickets. Opener Vishant More and middle order batsman Mansingh Nigde did well with a well compiled innings.
Brief Scores
Pratapgad Warriors: 85 all out; 15.3 overs (Parag More 30 n.o; Sagar Sawant 2/22, Akshay Darekar 3/22) bt Sinhagad Supremos: 88 for 5; 16.2 overs (Mansingh Nigde 21, Ameya Srikhande 18; Sunil Yadav 3/12) -- by 5-wkts
Toss: Supremos won, decided to field
Man-of-The-Match: Akshay Darekar (Sinhagad Supremos)
Tigers rip apart Emperors
Eighty-run victory is by far the biggest victory registered by any team in MPL-3
PUNE, October 4: Torna Tigers scored one of the biggest wins of this year’s Maharashtra Premier League, beating Devgiri Emperors by 80 runs at Deccan Gymkhana to improve their chances of making it to the last four.
The win not only gave Tigers four valuable points to take their tally to 10, but also helped them improve their net run-rate, which could well turn out to a be a decisive factor in determining the semi-final spots. For Tigers this was their maiden win in this edition of the tournament.
Devgiri, with 12 points, must now win their last league game on Wednesday to have a chance of making it to the last four.
After Emperors won the toss and opted to field, Tigers had their plan ready. Opener and IPL star Kedar Jadhav, and one down batsman Karan Nande played sensible cricket and added 76 runs off 49 balls for the second wicket, which created a solid base for the other Tigers’ batsmen to attack in the latter stages. Jadhav scored a slightly better than a run-a-ball 36 with the help of seven fours.
Nande, who has been in good form in the MPL-2011, scored a brilliant 43-ball 67, with the help of 10 fours and a six. After that, cameos from Saurabh Shingvi (19 runs, six balls, one four, two sixes) and Kiran Adhav (16 runs, nine balls, two fours, one six) helped Tigers to a highly competitive 178 for 8 in 20 overs.
Devgiri’s chase never got the momentum they needed, after losing openers Soloman Chopade and Sumit Chavan, as well as Amit Patil with just 22 runs on the board in the sixth over. Prayag Bhati (24) and Ketan Kasture (27 not out) tried to give Tigers’ a fight, but by the time they ot settled, the asking rate had climbed up well past 10 runs per over.
Emperors eventually finished at 98 of 9 in their 20 overs, giving Tigers a well-deserved win. Parikshit Jadhav was the most successful bowler for Tigers, with figures of 2/17 from three overs.
Barring Karan Nande, all the Tigers’ bowlers conceded less than six runs per over. They were also brilliant in the field, with Manoj Pardeshi affecting two run-outs, and Amit Kadam affecting one.
Brief Scores
Torna Tigers: 178 for 8; 20 overs (Karan Nande 67, Kedar Jadhav 36; Kishore Bhikane 3/24) bt
Devgiri Emperors: 98 for 9; 20 overs (Ketan Kasture 27 n.o. Prayag Bhati 24; Parikshit Jadhav 2/17) - by 80-runs
Toss: Emperors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Kiran Nande (Torna Tigers)
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Torna Tigers Karan Nande during
his knock of 67 runs |
PUNE, October 4: Torna Tigers scored one of the biggest wins of this year’s Maharashtra Premier League, beating Devgiri Emperors by 80 runs at Deccan Gymkhana to improve their chances of making it to the last four.
The win not only gave Tigers four valuable points to take their tally to 10, but also helped them improve their net run-rate, which could well turn out to a be a decisive factor in determining the semi-final spots. For Tigers this was their maiden win in this edition of the tournament.
Devgiri, with 12 points, must now win their last league game on Wednesday to have a chance of making it to the last four.
After Emperors won the toss and opted to field, Tigers had their plan ready. Opener and IPL star Kedar Jadhav, and one down batsman Karan Nande played sensible cricket and added 76 runs off 49 balls for the second wicket, which created a solid base for the other Tigers’ batsmen to attack in the latter stages. Jadhav scored a slightly better than a run-a-ball 36 with the help of seven fours.
Nande, who has been in good form in the MPL-2011, scored a brilliant 43-ball 67, with the help of 10 fours and a six. After that, cameos from Saurabh Shingvi (19 runs, six balls, one four, two sixes) and Kiran Adhav (16 runs, nine balls, two fours, one six) helped Tigers to a highly competitive 178 for 8 in 20 overs.
Devgiri’s chase never got the momentum they needed, after losing openers Soloman Chopade and Sumit Chavan, as well as Amit Patil with just 22 runs on the board in the sixth over. Prayag Bhati (24) and Ketan Kasture (27 not out) tried to give Tigers’ a fight, but by the time they ot settled, the asking rate had climbed up well past 10 runs per over.
Emperors eventually finished at 98 of 9 in their 20 overs, giving Tigers a well-deserved win. Parikshit Jadhav was the most successful bowler for Tigers, with figures of 2/17 from three overs.
Barring Karan Nande, all the Tigers’ bowlers conceded less than six runs per over. They were also brilliant in the field, with Manoj Pardeshi affecting two run-outs, and Amit Kadam affecting one.
Brief Scores
Torna Tigers: 178 for 8; 20 overs (Karan Nande 67, Kedar Jadhav 36; Kishore Bhikane 3/24) bt
Devgiri Emperors: 98 for 9; 20 overs (Ketan Kasture 27 n.o. Prayag Bhati 24; Parikshit Jadhav 2/17) - by 80-runs
Toss: Emperors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Kiran Nande (Torna Tigers)
HEAD TO HEAD: DAY 7
MATCH 25: Deccan Gymkhana: Devgiri Emperors 1-1 Torna Tigers
RESULTS
10/5/2009 (L): Tigers won by 7-wkts -- Deccan Gymkhana
21/5/2010 (L): Emperors won by 18 runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A-A-W
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
: 2011: L-A-A-L-A
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MATCH 26: Deccan Gymkhana: Sinhagad Supremos 2-0 Pratapgad Warriors
RESULTS
07/5/2009 (L): Supremos won by 22-runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L): Supremos won by 54-runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2011: W-W-A-W-L
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A
____________________________________________________
MATCH 27: Poona Club: Panhala Panthers 1-1 Sindhudurg Sailors
RESULTS
07/5/2009 (L): Sailors won by 20-runs -- PYC Gymkhana
25/5/2010 (L): Panthers won by 27-runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
: 2011: L-L-A-L-A
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
: 2011: L-A-A-A-A
____________________________________________________
MATCH 28/ Poona Club: Raigad Royals 2-0 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Royals won by 27-runs -- PYC Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 18 runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
: 2011: W-L-A-A-A
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A
RESULTS
10/5/2009 (L): Tigers won by 7-wkts -- Deccan Gymkhana
21/5/2010 (L): Emperors won by 18 runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A-A-W
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
: 2011: L-A-A-L-A
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MATCH 26: Deccan Gymkhana: Sinhagad Supremos 2-0 Pratapgad Warriors
RESULTS
07/5/2009 (L): Supremos won by 22-runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L): Supremos won by 54-runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2011: W-W-A-W-L
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A
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MATCH 27: Poona Club: Panhala Panthers 1-1 Sindhudurg Sailors
RESULTS
07/5/2009 (L): Sailors won by 20-runs -- PYC Gymkhana
25/5/2010 (L): Panthers won by 27-runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
: 2011: L-L-A-L-A
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
: 2011: L-A-A-A-A
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MATCH 28/ Poona Club: Raigad Royals 2-0 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Royals won by 27-runs -- PYC Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 18 runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
: 2011: W-L-A-A-A
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A-W-A
Race for semifinals gets hot
A sneak-peek at all teams ahead of the last 2 rounds in league phase of MPL-III
The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), a joint venture by the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group, is entering the last phase of the group stage, and the race for the semi-finals is hotting up.
With bad weather allowing nine results out of a potential 20 from the first five rounds of matches it is obvious that the usual calculations of most teams have gone for a toss. And instead it might well come down to each ones performance on the last two days of league phase to see who manages to stay in the tournament after Wednesday.
Here’s a closer look at how each of the eight teams have performed so far, and what they need to make it to the last four when MPL resumes action on Tuesday.
Pratapgad Warriors (14 points): The Runners-up of the MPL-2009 have won three game so far, and are yet to taste defeat in the MPL-2011. With the highest net run-rate of the tournament (0.3691), Pratapgad have one leg in the semis. A win in any of their next two games (v Sinhagad Supremos on Tuesday, v Shivneri Lions on Wednesday) would assure them a place in the semis.
Raigad Royals: One of the pre-tournament favourites, it’s not a surprise that Raigad are in the top-two, and one of the two unbeaten sides in the league stage so far. With 14 points and a decent net run rate (0.1706) they are obvious favourites to make it to last four. A win in either of their next two games (v Shivneri Lions on Tuesday, v Sinhagad Supremos on Wednesday) would make their place in the semis a certainty.
Sinhagad Supremos: The defending champions had a terrific run till Sunday, where they were bowled out for 34 by Devgiri Emperors. However, with 14 points to their name, and with the highest number of victories in the league phase among the eight teams so far (3) they are clear favourites to make the last four. With a net run-rate in the negative (-0.1017), Supremos would like a win in one of their last two games (v Pratapgad Warriors on Tuesday, v Raigad Royals on Wednesday) to be absolutely sure of making it to the semis. A loss in both games would mean hoping for favourable results in the other games.
Devgiri Emperors: With two wins, and same number of unfinished games, Emperors are in with a good chance of making their first ever MPL semis. With 12 points and a positive net run-rate (0.1242), one more win would put them in with a mathematical chance of making it to semis. Two wins out of two (v Torna Tigers on Tuesday, v Sindhudurg Sailors on Wednesday) would assure them a place in the last four.
Shivneri Lions: With a win and three unfinished games, Lions have accumulated 10 points. Their negative net run-rate (-0.0156) means winning both their remaining games (v Raigad Royals on Tuesday, v Pratapgad Warriors on Wednesday) is their best option to make it to semis. Winning one out of two games would put them in with a mathematical chance of making it to last four, provided that the other results go in their favour.
Torna Tigers: The semi-finalists of the MPL-2009 haven’t had a great campaign, and have six points from three unfinished games, and are yet to score a win in the MPL-2011. For them, the calculations are simple. Win both the remaining games (v Devgiri Emperors on Tuesday, v Panhala Panthers on Wednesday) and then hope for the other results to go in their favour, with a negative net run-rate (-0-1782). One more loss would put them out of contention for a place in the last four.
Sindhudurg Sailors: Like Torna, Sindhudurg are also win-less in the MPL-2011, which had their task difficult. With six points from three unfinished games, they need to win both their remaining games (v Panhala Panthers on Tuesday, v Devgiri Emperors on Wednesday) to have a chance of making it to last four. While one more loss would end their campaign, even after two wins, Sailors would need some luck going their way, as their net run-rate is the lowest of the eight teams at -0.2407.
Panhala Panthers: Lying at the bottom of the points table with four points, Panhala would need some kind of a miracle to make it to the semis. Winning both the remaining games (v Sindhudurg Sailors on Tuesday, v Torna Tigers on Wednesday) would give them an outside mathematical chance of making it to last four, should all the other results go in their favour. Panthers net run-rate (-0.1108) doesn’t do them any favour either.
The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), a joint venture by the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group, is entering the last phase of the group stage, and the race for the semi-finals is hotting up.
With bad weather allowing nine results out of a potential 20 from the first five rounds of matches it is obvious that the usual calculations of most teams have gone for a toss. And instead it might well come down to each ones performance on the last two days of league phase to see who manages to stay in the tournament after Wednesday.
Here’s a closer look at how each of the eight teams have performed so far, and what they need to make it to the last four when MPL resumes action on Tuesday.
Pratapgad Warriors (14 points): The Runners-up of the MPL-2009 have won three game so far, and are yet to taste defeat in the MPL-2011. With the highest net run-rate of the tournament (0.3691), Pratapgad have one leg in the semis. A win in any of their next two games (v Sinhagad Supremos on Tuesday, v Shivneri Lions on Wednesday) would assure them a place in the semis.
Raigad Royals: One of the pre-tournament favourites, it’s not a surprise that Raigad are in the top-two, and one of the two unbeaten sides in the league stage so far. With 14 points and a decent net run rate (0.1706) they are obvious favourites to make it to last four. A win in either of their next two games (v Shivneri Lions on Tuesday, v Sinhagad Supremos on Wednesday) would make their place in the semis a certainty.
Sinhagad Supremos: The defending champions had a terrific run till Sunday, where they were bowled out for 34 by Devgiri Emperors. However, with 14 points to their name, and with the highest number of victories in the league phase among the eight teams so far (3) they are clear favourites to make the last four. With a net run-rate in the negative (-0.1017), Supremos would like a win in one of their last two games (v Pratapgad Warriors on Tuesday, v Raigad Royals on Wednesday) to be absolutely sure of making it to the semis. A loss in both games would mean hoping for favourable results in the other games.
Devgiri Emperors: With two wins, and same number of unfinished games, Emperors are in with a good chance of making their first ever MPL semis. With 12 points and a positive net run-rate (0.1242), one more win would put them in with a mathematical chance of making it to semis. Two wins out of two (v Torna Tigers on Tuesday, v Sindhudurg Sailors on Wednesday) would assure them a place in the last four.
Shivneri Lions: With a win and three unfinished games, Lions have accumulated 10 points. Their negative net run-rate (-0.0156) means winning both their remaining games (v Raigad Royals on Tuesday, v Pratapgad Warriors on Wednesday) is their best option to make it to semis. Winning one out of two games would put them in with a mathematical chance of making it to last four, provided that the other results go in their favour.
Torna Tigers: The semi-finalists of the MPL-2009 haven’t had a great campaign, and have six points from three unfinished games, and are yet to score a win in the MPL-2011. For them, the calculations are simple. Win both the remaining games (v Devgiri Emperors on Tuesday, v Panhala Panthers on Wednesday) and then hope for the other results to go in their favour, with a negative net run-rate (-0-1782). One more loss would put them out of contention for a place in the last four.
Sindhudurg Sailors: Like Torna, Sindhudurg are also win-less in the MPL-2011, which had their task difficult. With six points from three unfinished games, they need to win both their remaining games (v Panhala Panthers on Tuesday, v Devgiri Emperors on Wednesday) to have a chance of making it to last four. While one more loss would end their campaign, even after two wins, Sailors would need some luck going their way, as their net run-rate is the lowest of the eight teams at -0.2407.
Panhala Panthers: Lying at the bottom of the points table with four points, Panhala would need some kind of a miracle to make it to the semis. Winning both the remaining games (v Sindhudurg Sailors on Tuesday, v Torna Tigers on Wednesday) would give them an outside mathematical chance of making it to last four, should all the other results go in their favour. Panthers net run-rate (-0.1108) doesn’t do them any favour either.
DAY 5: SNAPPY LOOK AT ACTION
Total Runs : 71
Wickets : 12
Overs : 17.4
Highest Score (Team) : Devgiri Emperors 37 for 2 (5.5 overs)
Lowest Score (Team) : Sinhagad Supremos 34 all out (10 overs)
Biggest Win: Devgiri Emperors bt Sinhagad Supremos -- by 8-wkts
Highest Ind. Score : Sumit Chavan (Devgiri Emperors; 16 runs)
Best Bowling : Kishore Bhikane (Devgiri Emperors; 3/9)
Half Centuries : -
Top Scores : -
Best Partnership : 25 (22 balls) - 1sth wicket Sumit Chavan/ Chetan Suryavanshi (Emperors)
Best Bowling Spell : 1.5-0-5-2 by Chetan Suryavanshi (Devgiri Emperors)
Win Toss, Lose Game: -
RESULTS
Match 17: Panhala Panthers v Shivneri Lions -- Match Abandoned, Rain, Pts Split
Match 18: Raigad Royals v Sindhudurg Sailors -- Match Abandoned, Rain, Pts Split
Match 19: Devgiri Emperors bt Sinhagad Supremos – by 8-wkts
Match 20: Raigad Pratapgad Warriors vTorna Tigers - Match Abandoned, Rain, Pts Split
Wickets : 12
Overs : 17.4
Highest Score (Team) : Devgiri Emperors 37 for 2 (5.5 overs)
Lowest Score (Team) : Sinhagad Supremos 34 all out (10 overs)
Biggest Win: Devgiri Emperors bt Sinhagad Supremos -- by 8-wkts
Highest Ind. Score : Sumit Chavan (Devgiri Emperors; 16 runs)
Best Bowling : Kishore Bhikane (Devgiri Emperors; 3/9)
Half Centuries : -
Top Scores : -
Best Partnership : 25 (22 balls) - 1sth wicket Sumit Chavan/ Chetan Suryavanshi (Emperors)
Best Bowling Spell : 1.5-0-5-2 by Chetan Suryavanshi (Devgiri Emperors)
Win Toss, Lose Game: -
RESULTS
Match 17: Panhala Panthers v Shivneri Lions -- Match Abandoned, Rain, Pts Split
Match 18: Raigad Royals v Sindhudurg Sailors -- Match Abandoned, Rain, Pts Split
Match 19: Devgiri Emperors bt Sinhagad Supremos – by 8-wkts
Match 20: Raigad Pratapgad Warriors vTorna Tigers - Match Abandoned, Rain, Pts Split
RAIN PAIN
Deccan gobbles up 6 of the 10 matches abandoned so far
At the end of the fifth day of the Maharashtra Premier League, exactly 10 of 20 match have given clear results while as many were forced to be abandoned as retreating monsoon hovered over Pune and pounded the city enough to leave its mark. And, of the 10 matches abandoned, the ratio between Deccan Gymkhana and Poona Club is a perfect tennisque score -- 6-4.
On the only Sunday that was part of the MPL 2011 itinerary, cricket fans were left to rue missed chances of watching intense action as three of the four matches of the day were abandoned due to unplayable conditions.
Poor drainage at Deccan Gymkhana meant that not even one match could be played on Sunday. However, Poona Club, did manage to host one complete match—nonetheless Devgiri Emperors-Sinhagad Supremos match needed less than 18 overs to throw up a result.
Panhala Panthers was scheduled to take on Shivneri Lions in the morning match at Deccan Gymkhana but there were patches of water all across the ground. There was no use in getting the stadium dry as collected water and slippery conditions would have taken entire day with no guarantee that ground will firm up.
Bottom placed Panhala Panthers got two points to take their tally to four. Shivneri Lions’ points increased to 10.
The afternoon match between Sindhudurg Sailors and Raigad Royals was too washed out. They now have six and 14 points respectively from five matches.
At Poona Club, Torna Tigers and Pratapgad Warriors returned without a ball being bowled and shared points. Torna now have six points while Pratapgad have 14 as does Sinhagad Supremos, who were done in by Devgiri Emperors in the morning match.
At the end of the fifth day of the Maharashtra Premier League, exactly 10 of 20 match have given clear results while as many were forced to be abandoned as retreating monsoon hovered over Pune and pounded the city enough to leave its mark. And, of the 10 matches abandoned, the ratio between Deccan Gymkhana and Poona Club is a perfect tennisque score -- 6-4.
On the only Sunday that was part of the MPL 2011 itinerary, cricket fans were left to rue missed chances of watching intense action as three of the four matches of the day were abandoned due to unplayable conditions.
Poor drainage at Deccan Gymkhana meant that not even one match could be played on Sunday. However, Poona Club, did manage to host one complete match—nonetheless Devgiri Emperors-Sinhagad Supremos match needed less than 18 overs to throw up a result.
Panhala Panthers was scheduled to take on Shivneri Lions in the morning match at Deccan Gymkhana but there were patches of water all across the ground. There was no use in getting the stadium dry as collected water and slippery conditions would have taken entire day with no guarantee that ground will firm up.
Bottom placed Panhala Panthers got two points to take their tally to four. Shivneri Lions’ points increased to 10.
The afternoon match between Sindhudurg Sailors and Raigad Royals was too washed out. They now have six and 14 points respectively from five matches.
At Poona Club, Torna Tigers and Pratapgad Warriors returned without a ball being bowled and shared points. Torna now have six points while Pratapgad have 14 as does Sinhagad Supremos, who were done in by Devgiri Emperors in the morning match.
Monday schedule postponed to Wednesday
Organisers take decision in lieu of the fact that few matches are completed
The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) will have no matches played on Monday. However, since half the schedule has gone topsy-turvy due to the receding monsoons it was decided that Round 6 of the schedule will be played on the rest day on 5th October, 2011 at their respective grounds.
The organizers confirmed, “Matches on Monday (October 3) are not called off, but postponed to Wednesday (October 5).”
Maharashtra Cricket Association, Tournament Committee Chairman Riyaz Bagwan, said, “It will be only fair to salvage the day. Rains have taken a toll on matches and this decision was necessary to get teams more playing time on the pitch in this tournament.”
As a result the games the Round 6 games Pratapgad Warriors v Shivneri Lions and Raigad Royals v Sinhagad Supremos at Deccan Gymkhana and the Panhala Panthers v Torna Tigers and Devgiri Emperors v Sindhudurg Sailors at Poona Club will be completed.
This is the second time that the MPL has had an upset in a full day schedule due to rain. Earlier, Friday, September 30 schedule was called off and two points were awarded to each team.
Bagwan clarified, “Monday’s schedule is not called off.”
The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) will have no matches played on Monday. However, since half the schedule has gone topsy-turvy due to the receding monsoons it was decided that Round 6 of the schedule will be played on the rest day on 5th October, 2011 at their respective grounds.
The organizers confirmed, “Matches on Monday (October 3) are not called off, but postponed to Wednesday (October 5).”
Maharashtra Cricket Association, Tournament Committee Chairman Riyaz Bagwan, said, “It will be only fair to salvage the day. Rains have taken a toll on matches and this decision was necessary to get teams more playing time on the pitch in this tournament.”
As a result the games the Round 6 games Pratapgad Warriors v Shivneri Lions and Raigad Royals v Sinhagad Supremos at Deccan Gymkhana and the Panhala Panthers v Torna Tigers and Devgiri Emperors v Sindhudurg Sailors at Poona Club will be completed.
This is the second time that the MPL has had an upset in a full day schedule due to rain. Earlier, Friday, September 30 schedule was called off and two points were awarded to each team.
Bagwan clarified, “Monday’s schedule is not called off.”
Match 19: Emperors humiliate Supremos
Bhikane, Sureshnath bowl out defending champs for 34 in morning crash course
Pune, October 2: Defending champions Sinhagad Supremos could not believe it. And not many would digest the fact if told last year’s victors mustered a paltry 34-runs in their innings against Devgiri Emperors at the Poona Club.
The Supremos batsmen fell to the opponent opening bowlers Sajin Sureshnath and Kishore Bhikane who produced dream spells to ensure the match ended in an hour and 43 minutes with Devgiri Emperors scoring one of the fastest win in Maharashtra Premier League.
Devgiri Emperors, who had lost one and won a match before their two matches were abandoned walked out eight-wickets winners with 14.1 overs to spare after cutting short Supremoes innings in 11.5 overs.
Bhikane was more incisive than his new ball partner, sending down deliveries that Sinhagad Supremos batsmen failed to comprehend with on an overcast day. Though Supremos openers Vishant More and Ameya Shrikhande held on for some time but it was soon clear that their resistance was as brittle as a glass.
Shrikhande was first to go when Sureshnath castled his wickets and next man Ganesh Gaikwad too departed on the same score of 12. Bhikane began from the other end and he gave no room for the middle order to settle leaving Supremos reeling at 15 for 5. Opener More’s haste in completing a cheeky run cost him dearlyas Prayag Bhati ran him out.
Incidentally, More, who hit a huge six, faced just six balls and was the top scorer for Supremos, who surrendered abjectly in the face of disciplined bowling from Emperors.
While the man-of-the-man Bhikane and Sureshnath returned with three wickets apiece, Chetan Suryavanshi snapped two tail-enders with Akash Benali joined in the party by removing Jitendra Patil for a duck as Supremos folded at 34.
There were hardly any runs on the board to chase, but in desperation of scoring quick runs, Devgiri lost two quick wickets when on 25, but then the victory target was within crawling reach.
Opener Sumit Chavan struck three boundaries in the 10-ball 16 before he returned to pavilion. Chetan Suryavanshi (5) also got out on the same score, but Prayag Bhati (2 not out) and Soloman Chopde (9 not out 9) carried Emperors to the target without any further hiccups.
Brief Scores
Sinhagad Supremos: 34 all out; 11.5 overs (Vishant More 8, Wasim Bari 5; Sajin Sureshnath 3/13, Kishor Bhikane 3/9) lost to Devgiri Emperors: 37 for 2; 5.5 overs (Sumit Chavan 16, Solomon Chopade 9 n.o) - by 8-wkts
Toss: Emperors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Kishor Bhikane (Emperors)
 |
Pune, October 2: Defending champions Sinhagad Supremos could not believe it. And not many would digest the fact if told last year’s victors mustered a paltry 34-runs in their innings against Devgiri Emperors at the Poona Club.
The Supremos batsmen fell to the opponent opening bowlers Sajin Sureshnath and Kishore Bhikane who produced dream spells to ensure the match ended in an hour and 43 minutes with Devgiri Emperors scoring one of the fastest win in Maharashtra Premier League.
Devgiri Emperors, who had lost one and won a match before their two matches were abandoned walked out eight-wickets winners with 14.1 overs to spare after cutting short Supremoes innings in 11.5 overs.
Bhikane was more incisive than his new ball partner, sending down deliveries that Sinhagad Supremos batsmen failed to comprehend with on an overcast day. Though Supremos openers Vishant More and Ameya Shrikhande held on for some time but it was soon clear that their resistance was as brittle as a glass.
Shrikhande was first to go when Sureshnath castled his wickets and next man Ganesh Gaikwad too departed on the same score of 12. Bhikane began from the other end and he gave no room for the middle order to settle leaving Supremos reeling at 15 for 5. Opener More’s haste in completing a cheeky run cost him dearlyas Prayag Bhati ran him out.
Incidentally, More, who hit a huge six, faced just six balls and was the top scorer for Supremos, who surrendered abjectly in the face of disciplined bowling from Emperors.
While the man-of-the-man Bhikane and Sureshnath returned with three wickets apiece, Chetan Suryavanshi snapped two tail-enders with Akash Benali joined in the party by removing Jitendra Patil for a duck as Supremos folded at 34.
There were hardly any runs on the board to chase, but in desperation of scoring quick runs, Devgiri lost two quick wickets when on 25, but then the victory target was within crawling reach.
Opener Sumit Chavan struck three boundaries in the 10-ball 16 before he returned to pavilion. Chetan Suryavanshi (5) also got out on the same score, but Prayag Bhati (2 not out) and Soloman Chopde (9 not out 9) carried Emperors to the target without any further hiccups.
Brief Scores
Sinhagad Supremos: 34 all out; 11.5 overs (Vishant More 8, Wasim Bari 5; Sajin Sureshnath 3/13, Kishor Bhikane 3/9) lost to Devgiri Emperors: 37 for 2; 5.5 overs (Sumit Chavan 16, Solomon Chopade 9 n.o) - by 8-wkts
Toss: Emperors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Kishor Bhikane (Emperors)
HEAD TO HEAD: DAY 5
MATCH 17: Deccan Gymkhana: Panhala Panthers 2-0 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
08/5/2009 (L): Panthers won by 7wkts -- Deccan Gymkha
24/5/2010 (L): Panthers won by 3-wkts -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
: 2011: L-L-A-L
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
: 2011: W-L-A-A
_____________________________________________________________
MATCH 18: Deccan Gymkhana: Raigad Royals 2-0 Sindhudurg Sailors
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Royals won by 8-wkts -- Deccan Gymkhana
21/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 69 runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A-W
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
: 2011: L-A-A-A
_____________________________________________________________
MATCH 19: Poona Club: Devgiri Emperors 1-1 Sinhagad Supremos
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Emperors won by 4-wkts -- PYC Gymkhana
24/5/2010 (L): Supremos won by 7-wkts -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A-A
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2011: W-W-A-W
_____________________________________________________________
MATCH 20: Poona Club: Pratapgad Warriors 1-2 Torna Tigers
RESULTS
08/5/2009 (L): Tigers won by 31 runs -- PYC Gymkhana
12/5/2009 (S): Warriors won by 14 runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
17/5/2010 (L): Tigers won by 15 runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
: 2011: W-A-A-W
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
: 2011: L-A-A-L
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final; W – Win; L – Loss; A - Abandoned
RESULTS
08/5/2009 (L): Panthers won by 7wkts -- Deccan Gymkha
24/5/2010 (L): Panthers won by 3-wkts -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
: 2011: L-L-A-L
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
: 2011: W-L-A-A
_____________________________________________________________
MATCH 18: Deccan Gymkhana: Raigad Royals 2-0 Sindhudurg Sailors
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Royals won by 8-wkts -- Deccan Gymkhana
21/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 69 runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A-W
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
: 2011: L-A-A-A
_____________________________________________________________
MATCH 19: Poona Club: Devgiri Emperors 1-1 Sinhagad Supremos
RESULTS
09/5/2009 (L): Emperors won by 4-wkts -- PYC Gymkhana
24/5/2010 (L): Supremos won by 7-wkts -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A-A
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2011: W-W-A-W
_____________________________________________________________
MATCH 20: Poona Club: Pratapgad Warriors 1-2 Torna Tigers
RESULTS
08/5/2009 (L): Tigers won by 31 runs -- PYC Gymkhana
12/5/2009 (S): Warriors won by 14 runs -- Deccan Gymkhana
17/5/2010 (L): Tigers won by 15 runs -- DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
: 2011: W-A-A-W
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
: 2011: L-A-A-L
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final; W – Win; L – Loss; A - Abandoned
Joshi serves Saturday special
Sailors’ Pushkaraj Joshi becomes third bowler to claim five in the MPL
In any form of cricket, a five-wicket haul is equivalent to a century. And in a format like Twenty20, getting a five-wicket haul is as difficult as posting a three-figure score. Round Four of the third Maharashtra Premier League had Sindhudurg Sailors’ right-arm pacer Pushkaraj Joshi’s achievement standout as special, albeit in a losing cause.
Joshi’s figures of 5/19 against Pratapgad Warriors is only the third instance of a five-wicket haul in the MPL history, which signifies the rarity of the feat even more. The only other bowlers to have taken a five-wicket haul in the MPL are Aditya Dole (right-arm pacer, Pratapgad Warriors) and Mudassar Mulla (left-arm spinner, Sinhagad Supremos), both achieving it in the MPL-2009.
At 30, Joshi has got the experience on his side, and we are not just talking about age here. After playing for Maharashtra in various age groups, Joshi opted to play in the Indian Cricket League (ICL) for Mumbai Champs. Unofficial, as it might be termed by the BCCI, it was cricket nonetheless, and cricket of good quality, with a number of international cricketers being part.
After scoring just 88 off their alloted 12 overs at 7.33 runs per over, Sailors needed something special from their bowlers to have a chance. And they got exactly that from Joshi, although it wasn’t enough on the day.
The right-arm pacer got rid of Swapnil Gugale, best batsman of the MPL-2010 for a duck to start the proceedings, and then caught the rival skipper Parag More for a duck of his own bowling. He got the wickets of all-rounder Mithun Kirad, big-hitting Nandan Kamat, and Sunil Yadav, before Pratapgad keeper Satyajit Satbhai played a match-winning knock of 37 to see his side home.
Three of Joshi’s five wickets were top-five batsmen. Add to that, he was allowed to bowl only three overs and not four, as the game was reduced to 12-overs per side due to wet outfield, and the feat becomes even more special.
In any form of cricket, a five-wicket haul is equivalent to a century. And in a format like Twenty20, getting a five-wicket haul is as difficult as posting a three-figure score. Round Four of the third Maharashtra Premier League had Sindhudurg Sailors’ right-arm pacer Pushkaraj Joshi’s achievement standout as special, albeit in a losing cause.
Joshi’s figures of 5/19 against Pratapgad Warriors is only the third instance of a five-wicket haul in the MPL history, which signifies the rarity of the feat even more. The only other bowlers to have taken a five-wicket haul in the MPL are Aditya Dole (right-arm pacer, Pratapgad Warriors) and Mudassar Mulla (left-arm spinner, Sinhagad Supremos), both achieving it in the MPL-2009.
At 30, Joshi has got the experience on his side, and we are not just talking about age here. After playing for Maharashtra in various age groups, Joshi opted to play in the Indian Cricket League (ICL) for Mumbai Champs. Unofficial, as it might be termed by the BCCI, it was cricket nonetheless, and cricket of good quality, with a number of international cricketers being part.
After scoring just 88 off their alloted 12 overs at 7.33 runs per over, Sailors needed something special from their bowlers to have a chance. And they got exactly that from Joshi, although it wasn’t enough on the day.
The right-arm pacer got rid of Swapnil Gugale, best batsman of the MPL-2010 for a duck to start the proceedings, and then caught the rival skipper Parag More for a duck of his own bowling. He got the wickets of all-rounder Mithun Kirad, big-hitting Nandan Kamat, and Sunil Yadav, before Pratapgad keeper Satyajit Satbhai played a match-winning knock of 37 to see his side home.
Three of Joshi’s five wickets were top-five batsmen. Add to that, he was allowed to bowl only three overs and not four, as the game was reduced to 12-overs per side due to wet outfield, and the feat becomes even more special.
DAY 4: SNAPPY LOOK AT ACTION
Total Runs : 698
Wickets : 59
Overs : 98.1
Highest Score (Team) : Raigad Royals – 137 for 7 (18. overs)
Lowest Score (Team) : Panhala Panthers: 70 for 8 (10 overs)
Biggest Win: Sinhagad Supremos bt Panhala Panthers -- by 6-wkts
Narrow Win: Pratapgad Warriors bt Sailors -- by 2-wkts
Highest Ind. Score : Harshad Khadiwale (Raigad Royals; 46 runs)
Best Bowling : Pushkaraj Joshi (Sindhudurg Sailors; 5/19)
Top Scores : Harshad Khadiwale (Raigad Royals; 46 runs), Mansingh Nigde (Sinhagad Supremos; 41 n.o), Satyajit Satbhai (Pratapgad Warriors; 37 runs)
Best Partnership : 35 (9 balls) - 8th wicket Anupam Sanklecha/ Ravi Jadhav (Supremos)
Best Bowling Spell : 2-0-4-4 by Akshay Darekar (Supremoss)
Win Toss, Lose Game: -
RESULTS
Match 13: Pratapgad Warriors bt Sailors -- by 2-wkts
Match 14: Devgiri Emperors v Shivneri Lions – Match Abandoned, Rain, Pts Split
Match 15: Sinhagad Supremos bt Panhala Panthers -- by 6-wkts
Match 16: Raigad Royals bt Torna Tigers – 3-wkts
Wickets : 59
Overs : 98.1
Highest Score (Team) : Raigad Royals – 137 for 7 (18. overs)
Lowest Score (Team) : Panhala Panthers: 70 for 8 (10 overs)
Biggest Win: Sinhagad Supremos bt Panhala Panthers -- by 6-wkts
Narrow Win: Pratapgad Warriors bt Sailors -- by 2-wkts
Highest Ind. Score : Harshad Khadiwale (Raigad Royals; 46 runs)
Best Bowling : Pushkaraj Joshi (Sindhudurg Sailors; 5/19)
Top Scores : Harshad Khadiwale (Raigad Royals; 46 runs), Mansingh Nigde (Sinhagad Supremos; 41 n.o), Satyajit Satbhai (Pratapgad Warriors; 37 runs)
Best Partnership : 35 (9 balls) - 8th wicket Anupam Sanklecha/ Ravi Jadhav (Supremos)
Best Bowling Spell : 2-0-4-4 by Akshay Darekar (Supremoss)
Win Toss, Lose Game: -
RESULTS
Match 13: Pratapgad Warriors bt Sailors -- by 2-wkts
Match 14: Devgiri Emperors v Shivneri Lions – Match Abandoned, Rain, Pts Split
Match 15: Sinhagad Supremos bt Panhala Panthers -- by 6-wkts
Match 16: Raigad Royals bt Torna Tigers – 3-wkts
Match 16: Royals make Tigers bow
Paradkar’s all round show leads Royals home in lone full-match completed in day
After being frustrated by the rain for two days, Raigad Royals got back to winning games in the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) by beating Torna Tigers by three wickets with two full overs to spare at the Poona Club.
Interestingly, the match was the only match that was played to a full 20 over quota during the day.
Nikhil Paradkar’s all-round show (two wickets and 30 not out) did the job for Royals’ as did a superb 46-run knock from former State skipper Harshad Khadiwale.
After bowling well to restrict Tigers to a modest 133 for 8, Royals looked like being undone by weather, with light fading at every minute of their inning. The news that the afternoon game at the Deccan Gymkhana ended up with no result due to heavy showers didn’t improve the mood either.
However, Royals remained professional in their chase, without letting the dark clouds or fading lights bother them, and scored the required runs on the last ball of the 18th over, Digamber Waghmare, called Tiger by his team-mates, hitting a four with scores being tied.
After Royals won the toss and opted to field, the Tigers innings never got the momentum that was needed to get a big score. They lost star opener Kedar Jadhav for 8, and always looked like struggling to get to a run-rate in excess of seven-and-half.
Ajinkya Joshi’s 18-ball 16 and Karan Nande’s 31-ball 29 brought the score some respectability, but it never gave their innings the lift that Tigers were looking for. Skipper Kiran Adhav’s 26-ball 28 took Tigers score past the 130-run mark. Shrikant Mundhe was the best bowler once again for Royals, finishing with figures of 3-30 from his four overs.
After a couple of failures, Royals’ opener Harshad Khadiwale came to his own on Saturday, smashing 46 runs off just 28 balls, which laid a solid platform for Royals’ chase. Khadiwale hit four fours and three sixes. Nikhil Paradkar, batting at No 5, played the role of a finisher perfectly, scoring 30 not out at almost a run-a-ball. His knock included four hits to the fence.
Brief Scores
Torna Tigers: 133 for 8; 20.0 overs (Karan Nandye 29, Kiran Adhav 28, Manoj Pardeshi 17; Srikanth Munde 3/30, Nikhil Paradkar 2/14) lost to Raigad Royals: 137 for 7; 18.0 overs (Harshad Khadiwale 46, Nikhil Paradkar 30 n.o, Sangram Attitkar 16; Parikshit Jadhav 3/36, Nasser Momin 2/32) - by 3-wkts.
Toss: Royals won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Nikhil Paradkar (Royals)
 |
After being frustrated by the rain for two days, Raigad Royals got back to winning games in the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) by beating Torna Tigers by three wickets with two full overs to spare at the Poona Club.
Interestingly, the match was the only match that was played to a full 20 over quota during the day.
Nikhil Paradkar’s all-round show (two wickets and 30 not out) did the job for Royals’ as did a superb 46-run knock from former State skipper Harshad Khadiwale.
After bowling well to restrict Tigers to a modest 133 for 8, Royals looked like being undone by weather, with light fading at every minute of their inning. The news that the afternoon game at the Deccan Gymkhana ended up with no result due to heavy showers didn’t improve the mood either.
However, Royals remained professional in their chase, without letting the dark clouds or fading lights bother them, and scored the required runs on the last ball of the 18th over, Digamber Waghmare, called Tiger by his team-mates, hitting a four with scores being tied.
After Royals won the toss and opted to field, the Tigers innings never got the momentum that was needed to get a big score. They lost star opener Kedar Jadhav for 8, and always looked like struggling to get to a run-rate in excess of seven-and-half.
Ajinkya Joshi’s 18-ball 16 and Karan Nande’s 31-ball 29 brought the score some respectability, but it never gave their innings the lift that Tigers were looking for. Skipper Kiran Adhav’s 26-ball 28 took Tigers score past the 130-run mark. Shrikant Mundhe was the best bowler once again for Royals, finishing with figures of 3-30 from his four overs.
After a couple of failures, Royals’ opener Harshad Khadiwale came to his own on Saturday, smashing 46 runs off just 28 balls, which laid a solid platform for Royals’ chase. Khadiwale hit four fours and three sixes. Nikhil Paradkar, batting at No 5, played the role of a finisher perfectly, scoring 30 not out at almost a run-a-ball. His knock included four hits to the fence.
Brief Scores
Torna Tigers: 133 for 8; 20.0 overs (Karan Nandye 29, Kiran Adhav 28, Manoj Pardeshi 17; Srikanth Munde 3/30, Nikhil Paradkar 2/14) lost to Raigad Royals: 137 for 7; 18.0 overs (Harshad Khadiwale 46, Nikhil Paradkar 30 n.o, Sangram Attitkar 16; Parikshit Jadhav 3/36, Nasser Momin 2/32) - by 3-wkts.
Toss: Royals won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Nikhil Paradkar (Royals)
Match 15: Supremos pip Panthers at finish
Defending champs continue winning run with last ball win as Darekar, Nigde shine
Defending champions Sinhagad Supremos continued their superb run in the Maharashtra Premier League with a resounding six-wicket win over Panhala Panthers at Poona Club.
In a game that was curtailed to 10 overs per side due to wet outfield, Sinhagad Supremos won the toss and reduced Panthers to 70 for 8, before chasing down the target on the last ball of their inning.
Left-arm spinner Akshay Darekar, and right-hand middle-order batsman Mansingh Nigde were the stars of the show for Supremos. Darekar took four wickets for just four runs in his two over spell, while Nigde scored 41 not out off 26 deliveries.
Panthers had a terrible batting performance, as they went from 15/0 to 24/7 in the space of 22 deliveries. It was the show of two left-arm spinners — Akshay Darekar and Mudassar Mulla—who took six wickets between them.
None of the Panthers top-five batsmen could get into double figures, and it was only because of Anupam Sanklecha’s cameo that Panthers managed to get past the 60-run mark. Sanklecha smacked three sixes and a four in his 12-ball 26, and with ‘keeper Ravi Jadhav, added 35 runs for the eighth wicket off 9 balls before exiting. Jadhav’s unbeaten 10-ball 16 included a four and a six.
Supremos never looked in trouble during their chase, as Man-of-the Match Nigde single-handedly took them past the required total. Nigde hit two sixes and a four in his unbeaten knock of 41, which came off 26 balls. His only four came with Supremos needing one run from as many balls for a victory.
Right-arm pacer Sanklecha was as good with the ball as he was with the bat for Panthers, conceding just six runs from his two overs. Off-spinner Ganesh Kukade turned out to be the most successful bowler for the losing side, finishing with figures of 2-18 from his two overs.
The loss for Panthers means that they are yet to win in this edition of MPL.
Brief Scores
Panhala Panthers: 70 for 8; 10 overs (Anupam Sanklecha 26, Ravi Jadhav 16 n.o; Akshay Darekar 4/4; Moshin Mulla 2/22) lost to Sinhagad Supremos: 74 for 4; 10 overs(Mansingh Nigde 41 n.o, Vishant More 12; Ganesh Kukade 2/18) - by 6-wkts
Toss: Supremos won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Mansingh Nigde (Supremos)
Defending champions Sinhagad Supremos continued their superb run in the Maharashtra Premier League with a resounding six-wicket win over Panhala Panthers at Poona Club.
In a game that was curtailed to 10 overs per side due to wet outfield, Sinhagad Supremos won the toss and reduced Panthers to 70 for 8, before chasing down the target on the last ball of their inning.
Left-arm spinner Akshay Darekar, and right-hand middle-order batsman Mansingh Nigde were the stars of the show for Supremos. Darekar took four wickets for just four runs in his two over spell, while Nigde scored 41 not out off 26 deliveries.
Panthers had a terrible batting performance, as they went from 15/0 to 24/7 in the space of 22 deliveries. It was the show of two left-arm spinners — Akshay Darekar and Mudassar Mulla—who took six wickets between them.
None of the Panthers top-five batsmen could get into double figures, and it was only because of Anupam Sanklecha’s cameo that Panthers managed to get past the 60-run mark. Sanklecha smacked three sixes and a four in his 12-ball 26, and with ‘keeper Ravi Jadhav, added 35 runs for the eighth wicket off 9 balls before exiting. Jadhav’s unbeaten 10-ball 16 included a four and a six.
 |
Supremos never looked in trouble during their chase, as Man-of-the Match Nigde single-handedly took them past the required total. Nigde hit two sixes and a four in his unbeaten knock of 41, which came off 26 balls. His only four came with Supremos needing one run from as many balls for a victory.
Right-arm pacer Sanklecha was as good with the ball as he was with the bat for Panthers, conceding just six runs from his two overs. Off-spinner Ganesh Kukade turned out to be the most successful bowler for the losing side, finishing with figures of 2-18 from his two overs.
The loss for Panthers means that they are yet to win in this edition of MPL.
Brief Scores
Panhala Panthers: 70 for 8; 10 overs (Anupam Sanklecha 26, Ravi Jadhav 16 n.o; Akshay Darekar 4/4; Moshin Mulla 2/22) lost to Sinhagad Supremos: 74 for 4; 10 overs(Mansingh Nigde 41 n.o, Vishant More 12; Ganesh Kukade 2/18) - by 6-wkts
Toss: Supremos won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Mansingh Nigde (Supremos)
Match 14: Rains prevent Emperors, Lions to have say
Match abandoned as Deccan Gymkhana attract rains again; points shared.
Retreating monsoon spoiled yet another Maharashtra Premier League match as the Deccan Gymkhana ground experienced another spell of heavy rains that cut short innings of Shivneri Lions while their opponents, Devgiri Emperors, could not even play single delivery.
After Shivneri Lions’ captain Kaustubh Patil won the toss and elected to bat on an overcast day, the Serum Institute owned team could not conjure up courage to score quick runs.
Opener Avdhut Dandekar scored 22 off 30 balls, even as two wickets fell that brought in Kaustubh in the middle. With the skipper in action, Shivneri Lions found some nerves as Kaustubh himself led with an example. In his 30-ball knock, Kaustubh scored 34 runs with four hits to the boundary before Ketan Kasture snapped him off Akash Benali.
No other Lions’ batsmen could reach the double digits and were 104 for six in 16.4 overs when heavy downpour forced the umpires to call the players off the field.
In the bowling department, Benali and Chetan Suryavanshi took two wickets apiece, but their efforts were wasted as Devgiri were forced to share points.
Brief Scores
Shivneri Lions: 104 for 6; 16.4 overs (Kaustub Patil 34 n.o, Avdhoot Dandekar 22, Mohit Kapur 12; Akash Benali 2/25, Chetan Suryavanshi 2/10) v/s Devgiri Emperors: -- Match Abandoned, Rain
Toss: Lions won, decided to bat
 |
Retreating monsoon spoiled yet another Maharashtra Premier League match as the Deccan Gymkhana ground experienced another spell of heavy rains that cut short innings of Shivneri Lions while their opponents, Devgiri Emperors, could not even play single delivery.
After Shivneri Lions’ captain Kaustubh Patil won the toss and elected to bat on an overcast day, the Serum Institute owned team could not conjure up courage to score quick runs.
Opener Avdhut Dandekar scored 22 off 30 balls, even as two wickets fell that brought in Kaustubh in the middle. With the skipper in action, Shivneri Lions found some nerves as Kaustubh himself led with an example. In his 30-ball knock, Kaustubh scored 34 runs with four hits to the boundary before Ketan Kasture snapped him off Akash Benali.
No other Lions’ batsmen could reach the double digits and were 104 for six in 16.4 overs when heavy downpour forced the umpires to call the players off the field.
In the bowling department, Benali and Chetan Suryavanshi took two wickets apiece, but their efforts were wasted as Devgiri were forced to share points.
Brief Scores
Shivneri Lions: 104 for 6; 16.4 overs (Kaustub Patil 34 n.o, Avdhoot Dandekar 22, Mohit Kapur 12; Akash Benali 2/25, Chetan Suryavanshi 2/10) v/s Devgiri Emperors: -- Match Abandoned, Rain
Toss: Lions won, decided to bat
Match 13: Warriors make heavy weather of Sailors total
Former captain Satbhai’s resilient 37 helps get past target; Pushkraj’s 5 in vain
Free from captaincy duties, Satyajit Satbhai played an innings worth remembering in a match where fortunes fluctuated several times before Pratapgad Warriors downed Sindhudurg Sailors by 2-wickets in the Maharashtra Premier League at Deccan Gymkhana.
For Warriors the win was their second, while for Sailors it was their second loss. Both teams have so far had two abandoned matches each in four rounds.
Chasing 89 for victory in a match that was reduced to 12-over-a-side after wet conditions forced delayed start, Pratapgad, who had won its opening match and then shared points in the next two, began in most improbable way losing four wickets in a jiffy.
Pushkaraj Joshi was wrecker-in-chief as he sent three batsmen packing early on while his captain Rahul Tripathy had opener Sehzad Fakih stumped by Prem Ahire in the second over of the match. Pushkaraj was back again and continued with his incisive bowling to entice Parag More and Mitnun Kirad give easy catches.
Pushkraj completed the first five-wicket haul of the 2011 MPL when he struck lower down the order, but his excellent efforts went in vain as Satbhai stood his ground and kept scoring crucial runs to take his team close to the victory target.
It was Satbhai, who shared two crucial stands with Sushant Vaze and Nandan Kamat worth 33 runs for the fifth wicket and 25 runs for the sixth wicket respectively that helped steady their ship before Sanjay Pardeshi and Salil Agharkar took them to 92 with three balls to spare.
Put in to bat, luck-less Sindhudurg Sailors began steadily with skipper and opener Rahul Tripathy and Chetan Yadav putting on 30 runs for the first wicket. Tripathy was unfortunate to get run out on a good throw by Shehzhad Fakih, but Yadav continued the momentum, despite Sailors losing three quick wickets in a space of three runs.
Yadav was out stumped by Satbhai when he went for a big heave off Salil Agharkar after having scored 27, while Jagdish Varde remained unbeaten on 10 as the lower order added some crucial runs to make their score challenging.
Brief Scores
Sindhudurg Sailors: 88 for 8; 12 overs (Chetan Yadav 27, Sangram Bagul 12; Sanjay Pardeshi 3/26, Salil Agharkar 2/16) lost to Pratapgad Warriors: 92 for 8; 11.3 overs(Satyajit Satbhai 37, Nandan Kamat 12; Pushkaraj Joshi 5/19)- by 2-wkts
Toss: Warriors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Satyajit Satbhai (Pratapgad Warriors)
 |
Free from captaincy duties, Satyajit Satbhai played an innings worth remembering in a match where fortunes fluctuated several times before Pratapgad Warriors downed Sindhudurg Sailors by 2-wickets in the Maharashtra Premier League at Deccan Gymkhana.
For Warriors the win was their second, while for Sailors it was their second loss. Both teams have so far had two abandoned matches each in four rounds.
Chasing 89 for victory in a match that was reduced to 12-over-a-side after wet conditions forced delayed start, Pratapgad, who had won its opening match and then shared points in the next two, began in most improbable way losing four wickets in a jiffy.
Pushkaraj Joshi was wrecker-in-chief as he sent three batsmen packing early on while his captain Rahul Tripathy had opener Sehzad Fakih stumped by Prem Ahire in the second over of the match. Pushkaraj was back again and continued with his incisive bowling to entice Parag More and Mitnun Kirad give easy catches.
Pushkraj completed the first five-wicket haul of the 2011 MPL when he struck lower down the order, but his excellent efforts went in vain as Satbhai stood his ground and kept scoring crucial runs to take his team close to the victory target.
It was Satbhai, who shared two crucial stands with Sushant Vaze and Nandan Kamat worth 33 runs for the fifth wicket and 25 runs for the sixth wicket respectively that helped steady their ship before Sanjay Pardeshi and Salil Agharkar took them to 92 with three balls to spare.
Put in to bat, luck-less Sindhudurg Sailors began steadily with skipper and opener Rahul Tripathy and Chetan Yadav putting on 30 runs for the first wicket. Tripathy was unfortunate to get run out on a good throw by Shehzhad Fakih, but Yadav continued the momentum, despite Sailors losing three quick wickets in a space of three runs.
Yadav was out stumped by Satbhai when he went for a big heave off Salil Agharkar after having scored 27, while Jagdish Varde remained unbeaten on 10 as the lower order added some crucial runs to make their score challenging.
Brief Scores
Sindhudurg Sailors: 88 for 8; 12 overs (Chetan Yadav 27, Sangram Bagul 12; Sanjay Pardeshi 3/26, Salil Agharkar 2/16) lost to Pratapgad Warriors: 92 for 8; 11.3 overs(Satyajit Satbhai 37, Nandan Kamat 12; Pushkaraj Joshi 5/19)- by 2-wkts
Toss: Warriors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Satyajit Satbhai (Pratapgad Warriors)
HEAD TO HEAD: DAY 4
MATCH 13: Deccan Gymkhana: Pratapgad Warriors 1-1 Sindhudurg Sailors
RESULTS
10/5/2009 (L): Warriors won by 9-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
24/5/2010 (L): Sailors won by 8 runs - Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
: 2011: W-A-A
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L-L-W-W
: 2011: L-A-A
________________________________________________________________
MATCH 14: Deccan Gymkhana: Devgiri Emperors 0-2 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
07/5/2009 (L): Lions won by 23-runss - Deccan Gymkhana
19/5/2010 (L): Lions won by 44 runs - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
: 2011: W-L-A
________________________________________________________________
MATCH 15: Poona Club: Panhala Panthers 2-0 Sinhagad Supremos
RESULTS
10/5/2009 (L): Panthers won by 90-runs - PYC Gymhana
17/5/2010 (L): Panthers won by 4-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W: 2010
: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
: 2011: L-L-A
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2011: W-W-A
________________________________________________________________
MATCH 16: Poona Club: Torna Tigers 1-1 Raigad Royals
RESULTS
07/5/2009 (L): Tigers won by 16-runs - PYC Gymkhana
24/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 23-runs - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
: 2011: L-A-A
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final; W – Win; L – Loss; A - Abandoned
RESULTS
10/5/2009 (L): Warriors won by 9-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
24/5/2010 (L): Sailors won by 8 runs - Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
: 2011: W-A-A
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L-L-W-W
: 2011: L-A-A
________________________________________________________________
MATCH 14: Deccan Gymkhana: Devgiri Emperors 0-2 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
07/5/2009 (L): Lions won by 23-runss - Deccan Gymkhana
19/5/2010 (L): Lions won by 44 runs - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2011: L-W-A
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
: 2011: W-L-A
________________________________________________________________
MATCH 15: Poona Club: Panhala Panthers 2-0 Sinhagad Supremos
RESULTS
10/5/2009 (L): Panthers won by 90-runs - PYC Gymhana
17/5/2010 (L): Panthers won by 4-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W: 2010
: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
: 2011: L-L-A
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2011: W-W-A
________________________________________________________________
MATCH 16: Poona Club: Torna Tigers 1-1 Raigad Royals
RESULTS
07/5/2009 (L): Tigers won by 16-runs - PYC Gymkhana
24/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 23-runs - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL-1, MPL-2 & MPL-3)
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
: 2011: L-A-A
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
: 2011: W-A-A
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final; W – Win; L – Loss; A - Abandoned
Fair Play in MPL 2011
The excitement in MPL 2011 is about to reach the peak. With rains washing away the points, all teams are trying their best to achieve maximum marks & to be at the top of the chart.
But winning the game & earning league points is not the only thing. Each team is also evaluated for the “Fair Play”. Other than skills in game players & teams must have some other qualities. Teams are judged in Fair Play on following aspects –
1. Respect for the spirit of game.
2. Respect for the opponent.
3. Respect for the role of umpire.
4. Overall conduct during the game.
Each team is awarded total points out of ten.
On the second day of MPL 2011, the Fair Play points awarded were –
Panhala Panthers - 8/10
Devgiri Emperors - 10/10
Torna Tigers – 10/10
Sindhudurg Sailors – 10/10
Raigad Royas – 10/10
Pratapgad Warriors – 10/10
Sinhagad Supremos – 9/10
Shivneri Lions – 10/10
But winning the game & earning league points is not the only thing. Each team is also evaluated for the “Fair Play”. Other than skills in game players & teams must have some other qualities. Teams are judged in Fair Play on following aspects –
1. Respect for the spirit of game.
2. Respect for the opponent.
3. Respect for the role of umpire.
4. Overall conduct during the game.
Each team is awarded total points out of ten.
On the second day of MPL 2011, the Fair Play points awarded were –
Panhala Panthers - 8/10
Devgiri Emperors - 10/10
Torna Tigers – 10/10
Sindhudurg Sailors – 10/10
Raigad Royas – 10/10
Pratapgad Warriors – 10/10
Sinhagad Supremos – 9/10
Shivneri Lions – 10/10
Big hitting is back in MPL
Two days of action sees plenty of 4s and 6s; batsmen have handled Kookaburra balls better.
Despite limitations caused by inclement weather, the Maharashtra Premier League was no short of excitement. In exactly half of the three days of scheduled play, on-field action documented a story of raining fours and sixes, before the Rain Gods intervened to add a first-ever reference note to the thriller.
In eight games, five completed, two unfinished, and one ending with the use of Duckworth/Lewis method, the tournament has already seen 1,750 runs being scored in 241.5 overs, a clear indication that batting has been the more dominating part, and that is what is expected in T20 cricket, in general.
The 150-run mark has already been crossed four times, a total of 170 been comfortably chased, and even a innings run-rate in excess of 11 runs per over been achieved in a rain curtailed game.
However, that was not quite the case in the MPL-II, where close to 60 per cent of the matches were played at the D.Y Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. It was a season where ball dominated the bat more often, and scores around 130 were comfortably defended. "It’s a very big ground. Also, the pitch was not so easy for batting," explained Maharashtra’s Australian cricket director Shaun Williams.
The other factor was the use of Kookaburra balls that were soft, and obviously a bit difficult to hit. The idea was attributed to Williams’ thinking, who felt the Kookaburra balls were needed to separate ‘correct’ batsmen from the sloggers.
"It’s a learning experience for all the players. Those, who keep their shape, will still score runs. But you can’t just play cross-batted slogs and score runs with these balls," Williams had said then.
In comparison, MPL-III has already seen much more big hitting in a day-and-half’s action. As many as 161 fours have been hit, while batsmen have been able to hit the ball for a six 58 times in 14 innings so far.
The ratio of sixes to fours is also quite exciting, as is evident from the figures. It has a lot to do with the rain, which made the outfield heavy before the start of play on Thursday, September 29. With ball not racing through, lot of batsmen, probably, opted to hit over the rope.
So what can one put down this heavy scoring too? smaller ground? better pitches?
"I think it's a mixture of a lot of factors. The pitches are better for batting, to start with. The grounds are obviously smaller than the D.Y Patil Stadium.
"Also, we are using a particular quality of Kookaburra balls that are a bit harder, than what we used last year. And let’s not forget, the players have had a full MPL season on the Kookaburra balls behind them. They have learned to adjust to it, to a extent, I think," Williams added.
Point taken but then for the average fan, MPL’s been a treat of seeing the ball vanish past the ropes.
Despite limitations caused by inclement weather, the Maharashtra Premier League was no short of excitement. In exactly half of the three days of scheduled play, on-field action documented a story of raining fours and sixes, before the Rain Gods intervened to add a first-ever reference note to the thriller.
In eight games, five completed, two unfinished, and one ending with the use of Duckworth/Lewis method, the tournament has already seen 1,750 runs being scored in 241.5 overs, a clear indication that batting has been the more dominating part, and that is what is expected in T20 cricket, in general.
The 150-run mark has already been crossed four times, a total of 170 been comfortably chased, and even a innings run-rate in excess of 11 runs per over been achieved in a rain curtailed game.
However, that was not quite the case in the MPL-II, where close to 60 per cent of the matches were played at the D.Y Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. It was a season where ball dominated the bat more often, and scores around 130 were comfortably defended. "It’s a very big ground. Also, the pitch was not so easy for batting," explained Maharashtra’s Australian cricket director Shaun Williams.
The other factor was the use of Kookaburra balls that were soft, and obviously a bit difficult to hit. The idea was attributed to Williams’ thinking, who felt the Kookaburra balls were needed to separate ‘correct’ batsmen from the sloggers.
"It’s a learning experience for all the players. Those, who keep their shape, will still score runs. But you can’t just play cross-batted slogs and score runs with these balls," Williams had said then.
In comparison, MPL-III has already seen much more big hitting in a day-and-half’s action. As many as 161 fours have been hit, while batsmen have been able to hit the ball for a six 58 times in 14 innings so far.
The ratio of sixes to fours is also quite exciting, as is evident from the figures. It has a lot to do with the rain, which made the outfield heavy before the start of play on Thursday, September 29. With ball not racing through, lot of batsmen, probably, opted to hit over the rope.
So what can one put down this heavy scoring too? smaller ground? better pitches?
"I think it's a mixture of a lot of factors. The pitches are better for batting, to start with. The grounds are obviously smaller than the D.Y Patil Stadium.
"Also, we are using a particular quality of Kookaburra balls that are a bit harder, than what we used last year. And let’s not forget, the players have had a full MPL season on the Kookaburra balls behind them. They have learned to adjust to it, to a extent, I think," Williams added.
Point taken but then for the average fan, MPL’s been a treat of seeing the ball vanish past the ropes.
Matches to resume on Saturday as per schedule
After a forced break for a day, the Maharashtra Premier League would be back
in action on Saturday, October 1, with four exciting Round 4 matches on
cards.
With heavy rains forcing two games on Thursday to be abandoned and the four
games for Friday to be called off, the action would begin with the game
between Pratapgad Warriors and Sindhudurg Sailors at the Deccan Gymkhana on
Saturday morning.
That would be followed by the game between Devgiri Emperors and Shivneri
Lions, while Pooona Club would see defending champions Sinhagad Supremos
take on Panhala Panthers in the morning, while Raigad Royals will face Torna
Tigers in the afternoon match.
Friday saw light showers in the afternoon, but it was nothing compared to
the heavy downpour on Thursday, which saw a lot of water logging on both the
venues.
After sharing two-points each for Friday’s called off games, all the eight
teams would be eager to get back on the ground on Saturday.
The organizers worked hard all through the day to make both venues playable
and thus the decision.
in action on Saturday, October 1, with four exciting Round 4 matches on
cards.
With heavy rains forcing two games on Thursday to be abandoned and the four
games for Friday to be called off, the action would begin with the game
between Pratapgad Warriors and Sindhudurg Sailors at the Deccan Gymkhana on
Saturday morning.
That would be followed by the game between Devgiri Emperors and Shivneri
Lions, while Pooona Club would see defending champions Sinhagad Supremos
take on Panhala Panthers in the morning, while Raigad Royals will face Torna
Tigers in the afternoon match.
Friday saw light showers in the afternoon, but it was nothing compared to
the heavy downpour on Thursday, which saw a lot of water logging on both the
venues.
After sharing two-points each for Friday’s called off games, all the eight
teams would be eager to get back on the ground on Saturday.
The organizers worked hard all through the day to make both venues playable
and thus the decision.
Friday games off; 2 pts awarded to all
All four matches of Round-3 in the league phase of the Maharashtra Premier League scheduled on Friday, September 30 have been called-off. This is the first instance ever in MPL that an entire day’s schedule will not be played!
Torrential rains that lashed the city Thursday evening forced the organizers to take the harsh decision as both venues - Poona Club and Deccan Gymkhana ended up water logged.
As a result, all teams were awarded 2 points each owing to the sudden change of weather conditions. "All the four matches for Friday have been called-off, and the teams have been awarded two points each," confirmed Riyaz Bagwan, Maharashtra Cricket Association, Tournament Committee Chairman.
Both afternoon matches on Thursday involving Pratapgad Warriors v Raigad Royals and Torna Tigers v Sindhudurg Sailors were abandoned after the first innings respectively owing to the heavy downpour that began at 3.30 pm. Both teams were awarded two points each.
Friday’s schedule had Devgiri Emperors take on Raigad Royals; Sindhudurg Sailors were to face Sinhagad Supremos; Shivneri Lions were to take on Torna Tigers and Panhala Panthers were to lock horns with Pratapgad Warriors.
Torrential rains that lashed the city Thursday evening forced the organizers to take the harsh decision as both venues - Poona Club and Deccan Gymkhana ended up water logged.
As a result, all teams were awarded 2 points each owing to the sudden change of weather conditions. "All the four matches for Friday have been called-off, and the teams have been awarded two points each," confirmed Riyaz Bagwan, Maharashtra Cricket Association, Tournament Committee Chairman.
Both afternoon matches on Thursday involving Pratapgad Warriors v Raigad Royals and Torna Tigers v Sindhudurg Sailors were abandoned after the first innings respectively owing to the heavy downpour that began at 3.30 pm. Both teams were awarded two points each.
Friday’s schedule had Devgiri Emperors take on Raigad Royals; Sindhudurg Sailors were to face Sinhagad Supremos; Shivneri Lions were to take on Torna Tigers and Panhala Panthers were to lock horns with Pratapgad Warriors.
DAY 2: SNAPPY LOOK AT ACTION
Total Runs : 936
Wickets : 37
Overs : 106.2
Highest Score (Team) : Raigad Royals – 183 for 7 (20 overs)
Lowest Score (Team) : Shivneri Lions – 96 for 7 (12 overs)
Biggest Win: Sinhagad Supremos bt Shivneri Lions -- by 41-runs
Highest Ind. Score : Chetan Suryavanshi (Devgiri Emperors; 74 runs)
Best Bowling : Prathamesh Pawar (Panhala Panthers; 4/27)
Half Centuries (3) : Chetan Suryavanshi (Devgiri Emperors; 74 runs), Ajinkya Joshi (Torna Tigers; 52 runs); Pravin D Shetty (Raigad Royals; 51 runs).
Best Partnership : 74 (33 balls) - 6th wicket Mansingh Nigde/ Azhar Ansari (Supremos)
Best Bowling Spell : 3-0-17-3 by Naushad Shaikh (Lions)
Win Toss, Lose Game: Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
Match 5: Devgiri Emperors bt Panhala Panthers -- by 5-wkts
Match 6: Sindhudurg Sailors v Torna Tigers - – Match Abandoned
Match 7: Sinhagad Supremos bt Shivneri Lions -- by 41-runs
Match 8: Pratapgad Warriors v Raigad Royals – Match Abandoned
Wickets : 37
Overs : 106.2
Highest Score (Team) : Raigad Royals – 183 for 7 (20 overs)
Lowest Score (Team) : Shivneri Lions – 96 for 7 (12 overs)
Biggest Win: Sinhagad Supremos bt Shivneri Lions -- by 41-runs
Highest Ind. Score : Chetan Suryavanshi (Devgiri Emperors; 74 runs)
Best Bowling : Prathamesh Pawar (Panhala Panthers; 4/27)
Half Centuries (3) : Chetan Suryavanshi (Devgiri Emperors; 74 runs), Ajinkya Joshi (Torna Tigers; 52 runs); Pravin D Shetty (Raigad Royals; 51 runs).
Best Partnership : 74 (33 balls) - 6th wicket Mansingh Nigde/ Azhar Ansari (Supremos)
Best Bowling Spell : 3-0-17-3 by Naushad Shaikh (Lions)
Win Toss, Lose Game: Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
Match 5: Devgiri Emperors bt Panhala Panthers -- by 5-wkts
Match 6: Sindhudurg Sailors v Torna Tigers - – Match Abandoned
Match 7: Sinhagad Supremos bt Shivneri Lions -- by 41-runs
Match 8: Pratapgad Warriors v Raigad Royals – Match Abandoned
Match 8: Warriors end in Royal wait
Rain forces teams to share points in repeat match of MPL-1 final.
Rain played spoilsport for the second day in a row, as Raigad Royals and Pratapgad Warriors were forced to share points in their much awaited clash in the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) at Poona Club.
In this afternoon clash, a repeat of the 2009 edition final, Raigad Royals did all the head work, did all the right things to score a highly competitive 183 for 7 in their 20 overs. However, torrential rains ensured that the Warriors’ chase never started, as both teams got two points each.
After Royals skipper Rohit Motwani won the toss and opted to bat, opener Harshad Khadiwale had a second straight disappointing day with the bat, scoring just one.
The match, dubbed as the best batting (Royals) vs best bowling of the tournament, came to life with one-down batsman Pravin D Shetty walking in, and taking the attack to Warriors’.
The talented right-hander scored heavily against Warriors’ new-ball pair of Samad Fallah and Sanjay Pardeshi. Fallah’s four overs went for 34 runs, while Pardeshi’s four cost the same. D Shetty smashed his way to his first half-century of the MPL-III, scoring 51 off just 30 balls. D Shetty’s knock included four sixes and a couple of fours. With Sangram Atitkar (23), D Shetty added 71 runs for the third wicket.
After that, it was the turn of two Royals’ all-rounders to run the show.
Left-hander Sandip Adole and Royals’ new recruit Shrikant Mundhe played superb cameos to take Royals to a big total. Adole smacked 39 off just 19 balls, which included four sixes and one four. Mundhe scored 27 off 11 deliveries with the help of four fours and a six.
With the outfield being on the heavier side, most of the batsmen tried to hit sixes, rather than fours, as was evident from D Shetty (four sixes, two fours) and Adole’s (fours sixes, one four) batting.
Brief Scores
Raigad Royals: 183 for 7; 20 overs (Praveen D Shetty 51, Sandip Adole 39, Srikanth Munde 27; Sanjay Pardeshi 2/34, Salil Agharkar 2/26) v/s Pratapgad Warriors: -- Match abandoned, Points Shared.
Toss: Royals won, decided to bat
Rain played spoilsport for the second day in a row, as Raigad Royals and Pratapgad Warriors were forced to share points in their much awaited clash in the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) at Poona Club.
In this afternoon clash, a repeat of the 2009 edition final, Raigad Royals did all the head work, did all the right things to score a highly competitive 183 for 7 in their 20 overs. However, torrential rains ensured that the Warriors’ chase never started, as both teams got two points each.
After Royals skipper Rohit Motwani won the toss and opted to bat, opener Harshad Khadiwale had a second straight disappointing day with the bat, scoring just one.
The match, dubbed as the best batting (Royals) vs best bowling of the tournament, came to life with one-down batsman Pravin D Shetty walking in, and taking the attack to Warriors’.
The talented right-hander scored heavily against Warriors’ new-ball pair of Samad Fallah and Sanjay Pardeshi. Fallah’s four overs went for 34 runs, while Pardeshi’s four cost the same. D Shetty smashed his way to his first half-century of the MPL-III, scoring 51 off just 30 balls. D Shetty’s knock included four sixes and a couple of fours. With Sangram Atitkar (23), D Shetty added 71 runs for the third wicket.
After that, it was the turn of two Royals’ all-rounders to run the show.
Left-hander Sandip Adole and Royals’ new recruit Shrikant Mundhe played superb cameos to take Royals to a big total. Adole smacked 39 off just 19 balls, which included four sixes and one four. Mundhe scored 27 off 11 deliveries with the help of four fours and a six.
With the outfield being on the heavier side, most of the batsmen tried to hit sixes, rather than fours, as was evident from D Shetty (four sixes, two fours) and Adole’s (fours sixes, one four) batting.
Brief Scores
Raigad Royals: 183 for 7; 20 overs (Praveen D Shetty 51, Sandip Adole 39, Srikanth Munde 27; Sanjay Pardeshi 2/34, Salil Agharkar 2/26) v/s Pratapgad Warriors: -- Match abandoned, Points Shared.
Toss: Royals won, decided to bat
Match 7: Supremos make Lions purr
Ansari, Nigde’s onslaught well supported by Patil, Darekar’s heroics with the ball.
Defending champions Sinhagad Supremos made it two wins out of two games in the MPL, beating Shivneri Lions by 41 runs at Poona Club.
In a game that was curtailed to 12 overs per side due to wet outfield, Supremos blasted their way to 137 for 5, before reducing Lions to 96 for 7.
After Lions won the toss and opted to field, Supremos lost their openers with 5 runs on the board in the third over. Mansingh Nigde took the responsibility of batting through after that, scoring 43 not out off just 25 balls. Nigde, who came in to bat at No 5, hit three fours and as many sixes.
With Wednesday’s Man-of-the-Match Ganesh Gaikwad and Vishal Bhilare failing to contribute much, last year’s skipper Azhar Ansari ensured that Supremos got to a big total. Left-hander Ansari smashed unbeaten 44 runs off just 17 balls as the Supremos run-rate got past the 11-runs per over mark.
Ansari’s breath-taking knock included five massive sixes and a couple of fours. Nigde and Ansari added 74 runs in just 33 balls for an unbroken sixth-wicket stand.
In reply to a very stiff target, Lions lost big-hitting opener Taranjit Singh early, clean bowled by left-arm pacer Jitendra Patil on the very first ball of the innings. Other opener Avdhoot Dandekar (27 runs, 15 balls) and Mohit Kapur (34 runs, 25 balls) kept Lions in the hunt with a 64-run partnership. But Lions lost both the set batsmen, as well as skipper Kaustubh Patil in the space of 13 balls for just 10 runs.
That spell completely broke Lions’ resistance, as Supremos slipped through some quiet overs. Last year’s bowler of the tournament—Jitendra Patil, returned with figures of 2-20 from his three overs, while left-arm spinner Akshay Darekar turned out to be the most successful bowler for Supremos, with a spell of 3-0-19-3.
It turned out to be a day of left-handers for Supremos, with Ansari doing most of the damage with the bat, before two left-armers—Patil and Darekar—took them to victory with their accurate bowling.
Brief Scores
Sinhagad Supremos: 137 for 5; 12 overs (Mansingh Nigade 43 n.o, Azhar Ansari 44 n.o; N Shaikh 3/17) bt Shivneri Lions: 96 for 7; 12 overs (Mohit Kapur 34, Akshay Dandekar 27; A Darekar 3/19, J Patil 2/20) -- by 41 runs
Toss: Lions won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Azhar Ansari (Supremos)
Defending champions Sinhagad Supremos made it two wins out of two games in the MPL, beating Shivneri Lions by 41 runs at Poona Club.
In a game that was curtailed to 12 overs per side due to wet outfield, Supremos blasted their way to 137 for 5, before reducing Lions to 96 for 7.
After Lions won the toss and opted to field, Supremos lost their openers with 5 runs on the board in the third over. Mansingh Nigde took the responsibility of batting through after that, scoring 43 not out off just 25 balls. Nigde, who came in to bat at No 5, hit three fours and as many sixes.
With Wednesday’s Man-of-the-Match Ganesh Gaikwad and Vishal Bhilare failing to contribute much, last year’s skipper Azhar Ansari ensured that Supremos got to a big total. Left-hander Ansari smashed unbeaten 44 runs off just 17 balls as the Supremos run-rate got past the 11-runs per over mark.
Ansari’s breath-taking knock included five massive sixes and a couple of fours. Nigde and Ansari added 74 runs in just 33 balls for an unbroken sixth-wicket stand.
In reply to a very stiff target, Lions lost big-hitting opener Taranjit Singh early, clean bowled by left-arm pacer Jitendra Patil on the very first ball of the innings. Other opener Avdhoot Dandekar (27 runs, 15 balls) and Mohit Kapur (34 runs, 25 balls) kept Lions in the hunt with a 64-run partnership. But Lions lost both the set batsmen, as well as skipper Kaustubh Patil in the space of 13 balls for just 10 runs.
That spell completely broke Lions’ resistance, as Supremos slipped through some quiet overs. Last year’s bowler of the tournament—Jitendra Patil, returned with figures of 2-20 from his three overs, while left-arm spinner Akshay Darekar turned out to be the most successful bowler for Supremos, with a spell of 3-0-19-3.
It turned out to be a day of left-handers for Supremos, with Ansari doing most of the damage with the bat, before two left-armers—Patil and Darekar—took them to victory with their accurate bowling.
Brief Scores
Sinhagad Supremos: 137 for 5; 12 overs (Mansingh Nigade 43 n.o, Azhar Ansari 44 n.o; N Shaikh 3/17) bt Shivneri Lions: 96 for 7; 12 overs (Mohit Kapur 34, Akshay Dandekar 27; A Darekar 3/19, J Patil 2/20) -- by 41 runs
Toss: Lions won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Azhar Ansari (Supremos)
Match 6: Rains Savior for Sailors
Tigers roar on Ajinkya’s knock, but nature has its way in abandoned game.
Opening bowler Karan Nandye had Sindhudurg batsmen in his spell after snapping two quick wickets, but Torna Tigers were forced to share points with struggling Sailors after heavy rains stopped the match after only three overs were bowled, in the Maharashtra Premier League at Deccan Gymkhana.
Having won a good toss under bright sunlight, Torna Tigers, who lost by six runs to Sinhagad Supremos on Duckworth-Lewis rule, saw their dreams crash again on second day running despite scoring a challenging 162 for five.
Openers Kedar Jadhav (32) and Ajinkya Joshi (52) provided a solid start putting on 64 runs for the first wickets in 6.5 overs. Kedar, who failed to get going on Wednesday, went after the Sailors bowling and smashed 32 in just 18 balls sending the leather over the ropes on six occasions.
After Kedar fell to Ashish Suryavanshi, Torna Tigers lost two more wickets in a space of 28 runs before Joshi found an able partner in Manoj Pardeshi, who remained unbeaten on 34. Pardeshi consumed 27 runs and hit two fours and as many sixes as Torna Tigers reached a respectable total.
Tigers opened their defence in immaculate fashion—keeping both the batsmen under leash. It was Nandye who struck in the second over when he castled Chetan Yadav for a naught. That was his second ball of the innings and Nandye complete his first over by taking Vikrant.
Nimhan on six on his last ball of the same over.
Drizzle began in the third over and by the time it was completed, downpour had become too heavy leaving the ground waterlogged.
Brief Scores
Torna Tigers: 162 for 5; 20 overs (Ajinkya Joshi 52, Manoj Pardeshi 34 n.o, Kedar Jadhav 32; Ashish Suryavanshi 3/20) v/s Sindhudurg Sailors: 17 for 2; 3.0 overs (Vikrant Nimhan 6; Karan Nandye 2/4) – Match abandoned, Points Shared.
Toss: Torna won, decided to bat
Opening bowler Karan Nandye had Sindhudurg batsmen in his spell after snapping two quick wickets, but Torna Tigers were forced to share points with struggling Sailors after heavy rains stopped the match after only three overs were bowled, in the Maharashtra Premier League at Deccan Gymkhana.
Having won a good toss under bright sunlight, Torna Tigers, who lost by six runs to Sinhagad Supremos on Duckworth-Lewis rule, saw their dreams crash again on second day running despite scoring a challenging 162 for five.
Openers Kedar Jadhav (32) and Ajinkya Joshi (52) provided a solid start putting on 64 runs for the first wickets in 6.5 overs. Kedar, who failed to get going on Wednesday, went after the Sailors bowling and smashed 32 in just 18 balls sending the leather over the ropes on six occasions.
After Kedar fell to Ashish Suryavanshi, Torna Tigers lost two more wickets in a space of 28 runs before Joshi found an able partner in Manoj Pardeshi, who remained unbeaten on 34. Pardeshi consumed 27 runs and hit two fours and as many sixes as Torna Tigers reached a respectable total.
Tigers opened their defence in immaculate fashion—keeping both the batsmen under leash. It was Nandye who struck in the second over when he castled Chetan Yadav for a naught. That was his second ball of the innings and Nandye complete his first over by taking Vikrant.
Nimhan on six on his last ball of the same over.
Drizzle began in the third over and by the time it was completed, downpour had become too heavy leaving the ground waterlogged.
Brief Scores
Torna Tigers: 162 for 5; 20 overs (Ajinkya Joshi 52, Manoj Pardeshi 34 n.o, Kedar Jadhav 32; Ashish Suryavanshi 3/20) v/s Sindhudurg Sailors: 17 for 2; 3.0 overs (Vikrant Nimhan 6; Karan Nandye 2/4) – Match abandoned, Points Shared.
Toss: Torna won, decided to bat
Match 5: Emperors lord over Panthers
Captain Chetan Suryavanshi smashes 74 as Emperors overhaul big total for first win
Wicket-keeper batsman Chetan Suryavanshi scored a rollicking 74 in just 44 balls to make look a huge target simple as Devgiri Emperors defeated Panhala Panthers by five wickets to post their first win in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League Twenty20 cricket tournament at the Deccan Gymkhana Ground.
For the Panthers the loss was their second on the trot in MPL-3.
Smashing eight fours and four sixes, Suryavanshi was in the middle for just 58 minutes, but his presence made all the difference after he opened the Devgiri’s chase with Sumit Chavan, who contributed 22 for a solid 81-run first-wicket stand.
Chasing 170 for five posted by Panhala Panthers, the Emperors remained in sight for the target right from the start and even after Chavan was castled by Ganesh Kukade, there was no looking back.
Suryavanshi was in as belligerent mood as he was and Prayag Bhati too joined in the binge scoring 23 off 16 balls. The two added 38 runs for the second wicket before Suryavanshi was snapped by Anupam Sanklecha off Prathmesh Pawar, but by then the story line was all too familiar with Devgiri showing no signs of wavering.
Amit Patil remained unbeaten on 16 as did Kishore Bhikane (6 not out) as the two batsmen steered Emperors into the winning zone. For Panthers, only Prathmesh Pawar stood out in the bowling department as he returned with figures of four for 27 in four overs.
Put in to bat, Panhala Panthers recovered fine from first ball duck of Tushar Shrivastav with Vipul Jeurkar (42) and Vinayak Renuse (45) steadying the ship with 65-run second-wicket stand. Jeurkar returned first before Renuse became the fourth wicket—both sent packing by Akash Benali.
Panthers, who lost their opening match on Wednesday to Raigad Royals, however, showed good resilience with their middle-order providing strength to the team total. Prathmesh Pawar scored 22-ball 34 with one four and a six, while Ravi Jadhav remained unbeaten on 29 to take Panhala to a respectable 170 for five in the allotted 20 overs.
Brief Scores
Panhala Panthers: 170 for 6; 20 overs (Vinayak Renuse 45, Vipul Jeurkar 42, Prathemesh Pawar 34, Akash Benali 2/27) lost to Devgiri Emperors: 171 for 5; 19.2 overs(Chetan Suryavanshi 74, Prayag Bhati 23, Sumit Chavan 22, Prathamesh Pawar 4/27) -- by 5-wkts
Toss: Emperors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Chetan Suryavanshi (Emperors)
Wicket-keeper batsman Chetan Suryavanshi scored a rollicking 74 in just 44 balls to make look a huge target simple as Devgiri Emperors defeated Panhala Panthers by five wickets to post their first win in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League Twenty20 cricket tournament at the Deccan Gymkhana Ground.
For the Panthers the loss was their second on the trot in MPL-3.
Smashing eight fours and four sixes, Suryavanshi was in the middle for just 58 minutes, but his presence made all the difference after he opened the Devgiri’s chase with Sumit Chavan, who contributed 22 for a solid 81-run first-wicket stand.
Chasing 170 for five posted by Panhala Panthers, the Emperors remained in sight for the target right from the start and even after Chavan was castled by Ganesh Kukade, there was no looking back.
Suryavanshi was in as belligerent mood as he was and Prayag Bhati too joined in the binge scoring 23 off 16 balls. The two added 38 runs for the second wicket before Suryavanshi was snapped by Anupam Sanklecha off Prathmesh Pawar, but by then the story line was all too familiar with Devgiri showing no signs of wavering.
Amit Patil remained unbeaten on 16 as did Kishore Bhikane (6 not out) as the two batsmen steered Emperors into the winning zone. For Panthers, only Prathmesh Pawar stood out in the bowling department as he returned with figures of four for 27 in four overs.
Put in to bat, Panhala Panthers recovered fine from first ball duck of Tushar Shrivastav with Vipul Jeurkar (42) and Vinayak Renuse (45) steadying the ship with 65-run second-wicket stand. Jeurkar returned first before Renuse became the fourth wicket—both sent packing by Akash Benali.
Panthers, who lost their opening match on Wednesday to Raigad Royals, however, showed good resilience with their middle-order providing strength to the team total. Prathmesh Pawar scored 22-ball 34 with one four and a six, while Ravi Jadhav remained unbeaten on 29 to take Panhala to a respectable 170 for five in the allotted 20 overs.
Brief Scores
Panhala Panthers: 170 for 6; 20 overs (Vinayak Renuse 45, Vipul Jeurkar 42, Prathemesh Pawar 34, Akash Benali 2/27) lost to Devgiri Emperors: 171 for 5; 19.2 overs(Chetan Suryavanshi 74, Prayag Bhati 23, Sumit Chavan 22, Prathamesh Pawar 4/27) -- by 5-wkts
Toss: Emperors won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Chetan Suryavanshi (Emperors)
MPL 2011 DAY 1: SNAPPY LOOK AT ACTION
DAY 1: SNAPPY LOOK AT ACTION
Total Runs : 814
Wickets : 49
Overs : 135.3
Highest Score (Team) : Shivneri Lions – 173 for 5 (20 overs)
Lowest Score (Team) : Devgiri Emperors – 63 (16.4 overs)
Biggest Win: Pratapgad Warriors bt Devgiri Emperors by 7 wkts
Narrow Win: Sinhagad Supremos bt Torna Tigers by 6-runs (D/L Method)
Highest Ind. Score : Ganesh Gaikwad 79 (Sinhagad Supremos; 79 runs)
Best Bowling : Naushad Shaikh (Shivneri Lions; 4/22)
Half Centuries (3) : Ganesh Gaikwad (Supremos; 79 runs) Kaustub Patil (Lions; 61 n.o), Taranjeet Singh (Lions; 53 n.o)
Best Partnership : 93 (47 balls) - 4th wicket Kaustub Patil/ Tarandeep Singh (Lions)
Best Bowling Spell : 2-0-9-2 by Rahul Desai (Lions)
Win Toss, Lose Game: Sindhudurg Sailors and Devgiri Emperors
RESULTS
Match 1: Raigad Royals bt Panhala Panthers by 6-wkts
Match 2: Sinhagad Supremos bt Torna Tigers by 6-runs (D/L Method)
Match 3: Shivneri Lions bt Sindhudurg Sailors by 38-runs
Match 4: Pratapgad Warriors bt Devgiri Emperors by 7 wkts
Total Runs : 814
Wickets : 49
Overs : 135.3
Highest Score (Team) : Shivneri Lions – 173 for 5 (20 overs)
Lowest Score (Team) : Devgiri Emperors – 63 (16.4 overs)
Biggest Win: Pratapgad Warriors bt Devgiri Emperors by 7 wkts
Narrow Win: Sinhagad Supremos bt Torna Tigers by 6-runs (D/L Method)
Highest Ind. Score : Ganesh Gaikwad 79 (Sinhagad Supremos; 79 runs)
Best Bowling : Naushad Shaikh (Shivneri Lions; 4/22)
Half Centuries (3) : Ganesh Gaikwad (Supremos; 79 runs) Kaustub Patil (Lions; 61 n.o), Taranjeet Singh (Lions; 53 n.o)
Best Partnership : 93 (47 balls) - 4th wicket Kaustub Patil/ Tarandeep Singh (Lions)
Best Bowling Spell : 2-0-9-2 by Rahul Desai (Lions)
Win Toss, Lose Game: Sindhudurg Sailors and Devgiri Emperors
RESULTS
Match 1: Raigad Royals bt Panhala Panthers by 6-wkts
Match 2: Sinhagad Supremos bt Torna Tigers by 6-runs (D/L Method)
Match 3: Shivneri Lions bt Sindhudurg Sailors by 38-runs
Match 4: Pratapgad Warriors bt Devgiri Emperors by 7 wkts
DAY 2: HEAD-2-HEAD/ FORM RUN
MATCH 5/ Deccan Gymkhana: Devgiri Emperors 1-1 Panhala Panthers
RESULTS
04/5/2009 (L) : Panthers won by 41-runs – Deccan Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L) : Emperors won by 6-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
MATCH 6/ Deccan Gymkhana: Sindhudurg Sailors 1-1 Torna Tigers
RESULTS
05/5/2009 (L) : Tigers won by 31-runs – Deccan Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L) : Sailors won by 6-wkts - Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
MATCH 7/ Poona Club: Sinhagad Supremos 2-1 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
05/5/2009 (L) : Supremos won by 2-wkts – Deccan Gymkhana
21/5/2010 (L) : Lions won by 4-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
27/5/2010 (S) : Supremos won by 6-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
MATCH 8/ Poona Club: Raigad Royals 2-1 Pratapgad Warriors
RESULTS
04/5/2009 (L) : Warriors won by 2-runs – PYC Hindu Gymkhana
14/5/2010 (F) : Royals won by 6 wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
19/5/2010 (L) : Royals won by 7-wkts - Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final
Eight ‘ducks’ make a story!
Opening day blues hits five opening batsmen as they fail to get off the mark
It was opening day blues for 8 batsmen who in totality lasted just 18 balls but could not get off the mark and logged ‘ducks’ to their name.
Interestingly, among the eight who had this dubious distinction five were openers (one non-striker) in the four-matches lined up for the day and seven innings out of the eight had a blob recorded in their respective score cards.
Torna Tigers were the only team to come clean, but again that was because they could not last the distance owing to the rain that led to the D/L Method cutting short their match against Sinhagad Supremos in the 12th over. Tigers lost but had the distinction of a duck-free inning.
Several interesting notes came to fore.
It begins with the Raigad Royals and Panhala Panthers match having both openers - Harshad Khadiwale (Royals; 3rd ball) and Tushar Srivastava (Panthers) disappointing their teams respectively.
Sinhagad Supremos’s opener Ameya Srikhande run-out off the first ball was the only one of its kind dismissal. Ameya and Tushar (Panthers) shared the out-on-first-ball stat as openers, and collectively were made Club-4 along with No. 4 batsmen Prayag Bhatti (Devgiri Emperors) and Sangram Bagul (Sinhagad Sailors).
All matches had two ducks logged in their innings, with Sinhagad Supremos and Devgiri Emperors having two each. Supremos had Ameya and No 3 bat Mansingh Nigde (out on 5th ball), while Devgiri Emperors had opener Sumit Chavan (out on 4th ball) and Prayag Bhatti.
Interestingly, the only first-strike openers to survive this wrath of ‘ducks’ was Avdhoot Dandekar and Vikrant Nimhan for and in the Shivneri Lions and Sindhudurg Sailors game. The match had the only non-striker opener – Ashish Suryavanshi (out on 2nd ball) – add into the eight batsmen who will want to forget MPL-III as quickly as possible.
It was opening day blues for 8 batsmen who in totality lasted just 18 balls but could not get off the mark and logged ‘ducks’ to their name.
Interestingly, among the eight who had this dubious distinction five were openers (one non-striker) in the four-matches lined up for the day and seven innings out of the eight had a blob recorded in their respective score cards.
Torna Tigers were the only team to come clean, but again that was because they could not last the distance owing to the rain that led to the D/L Method cutting short their match against Sinhagad Supremos in the 12th over. Tigers lost but had the distinction of a duck-free inning.
Several interesting notes came to fore.
It begins with the Raigad Royals and Panhala Panthers match having both openers - Harshad Khadiwale (Royals; 3rd ball) and Tushar Srivastava (Panthers) disappointing their teams respectively.
Sinhagad Supremos’s opener Ameya Srikhande run-out off the first ball was the only one of its kind dismissal. Ameya and Tushar (Panthers) shared the out-on-first-ball stat as openers, and collectively were made Club-4 along with No. 4 batsmen Prayag Bhatti (Devgiri Emperors) and Sangram Bagul (Sinhagad Sailors).
All matches had two ducks logged in their innings, with Sinhagad Supremos and Devgiri Emperors having two each. Supremos had Ameya and No 3 bat Mansingh Nigde (out on 5th ball), while Devgiri Emperors had opener Sumit Chavan (out on 4th ball) and Prayag Bhatti.
Interestingly, the only first-strike openers to survive this wrath of ‘ducks’ was Avdhoot Dandekar and Vikrant Nimhan for and in the Shivneri Lions and Sindhudurg Sailors game. The match had the only non-striker opener – Ashish Suryavanshi (out on 2nd ball) – add into the eight batsmen who will want to forget MPL-III as quickly as possible.
Match 4: Warriors run through Emperors
Fallah, Kirad claim 3 each to force Devgiri Emperors batsmen slip-up and post 63
Pratapgad Warriors is a team known for their bowling strength. They have proven in the past that even in a format like Twenty20 bowlers can win a match. And they did so on the inaugural day of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), bowling out Devgiri Emperors for 63, and winning the game by seven wickets with as many as nine overs to spare.
Left-arm pacer Samad Fallah has been the No 1 bowler, be it for the Maharashtra team, or the Warriors, for the past three years. And Fallah was at his best once again at the Poona Club, claiming three wickets for just 15 runs in his four overs.
Warriors had strengthened their bowling attack by hiring the services of right-arm pacer Sanjay Pardeshi at the auction in November, and Pardeshi proved his worth straightway, with a 3-0-9-2 spell.
Fallah gave a perfect start to Warriors, removing Emperors opener Sumit Chavan on the fourth ball of the game. Emperors hadn’t even opened their account then. With none of the top-five Emperors batsmen able to get into double digits, the scoreboard looked a poor 14 for 5 for Emperors. 14 for 5 soon became 25 for 8.
Soloman Chopade stood like a rock from one end, as other Emperors batsmen kept trying to hit ambitious shots. Chopade remained unbeaten on 27 off 29 balls, which helped Emperors cross the 60-run mark. Chopade, in fact, was the only Emperors batsman to get into double digits.
For Warriors, Mithun Kirad did a lot of damage in the middle overs, taking three wickets for just 10 runs in his 2.4 overs. It was never a challenge for Warriors, they chased down the target carefully.
Openers Shehzad Fakih and Swapnil Gugale took the scoreboard to 34, ensuring that there was no chance of a dramatic turnaround. After their dismissals, skipper Parag More and Satyajit Satbhai took Warriors to the brink of win, eventually completing the formalities on the last ball of the 11th over.
Brief Scores
Devgiri Emperors: 63 in 16.4 overs (Soloman Chopade 27 n.o, Samad Fallah 3/15, Mithun Kirad 3/10) lost to Pratapgad Warriors: 64 for 3; 11 overs (Shehzad Fakih 23, Swapnil Gugale 14) – by 7-wkts
Toss: Emperors won, decided to bat
Man-Of-The-Match: Samad Fallah (Warriors)
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Pratapgad Warriors on Their Way to Convincing Victory
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Pratapgad Warriors is a team known for their bowling strength. They have proven in the past that even in a format like Twenty20 bowlers can win a match. And they did so on the inaugural day of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), bowling out Devgiri Emperors for 63, and winning the game by seven wickets with as many as nine overs to spare.
Left-arm pacer Samad Fallah has been the No 1 bowler, be it for the Maharashtra team, or the Warriors, for the past three years. And Fallah was at his best once again at the Poona Club, claiming three wickets for just 15 runs in his four overs.
Warriors had strengthened their bowling attack by hiring the services of right-arm pacer Sanjay Pardeshi at the auction in November, and Pardeshi proved his worth straightway, with a 3-0-9-2 spell.
Fallah gave a perfect start to Warriors, removing Emperors opener Sumit Chavan on the fourth ball of the game. Emperors hadn’t even opened their account then. With none of the top-five Emperors batsmen able to get into double digits, the scoreboard looked a poor 14 for 5 for Emperors. 14 for 5 soon became 25 for 8.
Soloman Chopade stood like a rock from one end, as other Emperors batsmen kept trying to hit ambitious shots. Chopade remained unbeaten on 27 off 29 balls, which helped Emperors cross the 60-run mark. Chopade, in fact, was the only Emperors batsman to get into double digits.
For Warriors, Mithun Kirad did a lot of damage in the middle overs, taking three wickets for just 10 runs in his 2.4 overs. It was never a challenge for Warriors, they chased down the target carefully.
Openers Shehzad Fakih and Swapnil Gugale took the scoreboard to 34, ensuring that there was no chance of a dramatic turnaround. After their dismissals, skipper Parag More and Satyajit Satbhai took Warriors to the brink of win, eventually completing the formalities on the last ball of the 11th over.
Brief Scores
Devgiri Emperors: 63 in 16.4 overs (Soloman Chopade 27 n.o, Samad Fallah 3/15, Mithun Kirad 3/10) lost to Pratapgad Warriors: 64 for 3; 11 overs (Shehzad Fakih 23, Swapnil Gugale 14) – by 7-wkts
Toss: Emperors won, decided to bat
Man-Of-The-Match: Samad Fallah (Warriors)
Match 3: Lions scare Sailors charge
Sailors lose plot as Kaustub-Taranjeet put on 93 for 4-wkt and set tone of result
A brilliant unbroken 93-run partnership between skipper Kaustubh Patil and Taranjeet Singh, and some excellent bowling by Naushad Shaikh and Rahul Desai helped Shivneri Lions to a comfortable 38-run win over Sindhudurg Sailors on Day 1.
Lions’ win thus meant that they maintained their stranglehold on the Sailors having always beaten them.
After Lions, who won the toss and opted to bat, lost their first two wickets in just 1.3 overs with seven runs on the board, opener Avdhoot Dandekar and Patil did the repair job with a 73-run partnership for the third wicket.
Dandekar scored a 39-ball 38, which included five fours. With scoreboard reading 80/3 following Dandekar’s dismissal in 12.1 overs, in came Taranjeet Singh, a strongly built lad, with a reputation for big hitting.
The right-hander lived up to the expectations. Taranjeet, whose brilliant hitting in the MPL-I earned him a spot in the State T20 team, smashed his way to a 24-ball 53, which included five massive sixes, and three fours.
At the other end, Patil was smart, scoring quicker than a run-a-ball, and rotating strike well. Patil hit just five fours, and was still able to maintain a healthy strike-rate, finishing 61 not out off 52 balls. Lions finished with a highly competitive 173 for 3 in 20 overs.
In response, Sailors were given a solid start by Vikrant Nimhan and Chetan Yadav. The duo put up a 47-run opening stand in 5.3 overs, keeping Sailors firmly in the hunt.
Sailors looked well set at 81 for 1 after 10 overs, with Yadav and skipper Rahul Tripathy at the crease. But that’s where Naushad Shaikh started his magic, removing Tripathy and Sangram Bagul back-to-back in the 11th over.
Mohit Kapur got rid of a well set Yadav in the next over, and that put Sailors under a lot of pressure. Shaikh got another two-wicket burst in his next over, with wickets of Ashish Suryavanshi and Mahesh Arkal in the space of three deliveries, before Rahul Desai polished off the tail.
Brief Scores
Shivneri Lions: 173 for 5; 20 overs (Kaustubh Patil 61 n.o, Taranjeet Singh 53 n.o, Avdhoot Dandekar 38) beat Sindhudurg Sailors: 135; 19.5 (Chetan Yadav 34, Vikrant Nimhan 21, Rahul Tripathy 21; Naushad Shaikh 4/22, Rahul Desai 3/9) -- by 38 runs
Toss: Sindhudurg won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Kaustub Patil (Shivneri Lions)
A brilliant unbroken 93-run partnership between skipper Kaustubh Patil and Taranjeet Singh, and some excellent bowling by Naushad Shaikh and Rahul Desai helped Shivneri Lions to a comfortable 38-run win over Sindhudurg Sailors on Day 1.
Lions’ win thus meant that they maintained their stranglehold on the Sailors having always beaten them.
After Lions, who won the toss and opted to bat, lost their first two wickets in just 1.3 overs with seven runs on the board, opener Avdhoot Dandekar and Patil did the repair job with a 73-run partnership for the third wicket.
Dandekar scored a 39-ball 38, which included five fours. With scoreboard reading 80/3 following Dandekar’s dismissal in 12.1 overs, in came Taranjeet Singh, a strongly built lad, with a reputation for big hitting.
The right-hander lived up to the expectations. Taranjeet, whose brilliant hitting in the MPL-I earned him a spot in the State T20 team, smashed his way to a 24-ball 53, which included five massive sixes, and three fours.
At the other end, Patil was smart, scoring quicker than a run-a-ball, and rotating strike well. Patil hit just five fours, and was still able to maintain a healthy strike-rate, finishing 61 not out off 52 balls. Lions finished with a highly competitive 173 for 3 in 20 overs.
In response, Sailors were given a solid start by Vikrant Nimhan and Chetan Yadav. The duo put up a 47-run opening stand in 5.3 overs, keeping Sailors firmly in the hunt.
Sailors looked well set at 81 for 1 after 10 overs, with Yadav and skipper Rahul Tripathy at the crease. But that’s where Naushad Shaikh started his magic, removing Tripathy and Sangram Bagul back-to-back in the 11th over.
Mohit Kapur got rid of a well set Yadav in the next over, and that put Sailors under a lot of pressure. Shaikh got another two-wicket burst in his next over, with wickets of Ashish Suryavanshi and Mahesh Arkal in the space of three deliveries, before Rahul Desai polished off the tail.
Brief Scores
Shivneri Lions: 173 for 5; 20 overs (Kaustubh Patil 61 n.o, Taranjeet Singh 53 n.o, Avdhoot Dandekar 38) beat Sindhudurg Sailors: 135; 19.5 (Chetan Yadav 34, Vikrant Nimhan 21, Rahul Tripathy 21; Naushad Shaikh 4/22, Rahul Desai 3/9) -- by 38 runs
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| Sindhudurg Sailors Vs Shivneri Lions |
Toss: Sindhudurg won, decided to field
Man-Of-The-Match: Kaustub Patil (Shivneri Lions)
Match 2: Supremos log MPL's first D/L win
Beat Torna Tigers by six runs after rain plays spoilsport in a high-scoring match
Retreating monsoon rains caused its first casualty in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League when the Duckworth-Lewis Method struck down easy-going Torna Tigers. Result: Tigers lost the first-ever MPL match decided by this system to Sinhagad Supremos by six runs at Deccan Gymkhana.
Supremos thus maintained their winning run against Tigers, though it would be apt to say that Tigers had almost managed to reverse their own fortunes.
Chasing a challenging target of 153/5 set by Supremos, Tigers were propped up by Kedar Jadhav’s 25-ball 39, but after he got out in most silly manner, Torna were left to rue their chances when downpour suddenly began in the 12th overs.
Torna Tigers were 77/2 in 12.0 overs and needed to be on 83 to be winning the match on D/L method but it was not to be.
Opener Virag Awate remained unbeaten on 28, but he had consumed 35 balls and struck only three fours. In contrast, it was Kedar Jadhav’s rollicking 39 with three fours and as many sixes that stood out and enthralled the good crowd that gathered at the ground. Jadhav was in fine nick, but in his hurry to speed up the innings, he missed the line of Mudassar Mulla’s delivery and was stumped by Vishant More.
Parikshit Jadhav (2 not out) was at the other end when rains halted the match. Umpires waited for more than an hour before announcing that D/L method would apply as no more play was possible.
Earlier, electing to bat, Sinhagad Supremos suffered two early blows when opener Ameya Shrikhande and one-down Mansingh Nigde were back in the pavilion without opening their accounts. But Vishant More and Man-Of-The-Match Ganesh Gaikwad steadied the innings and raised the tempo.
Though More contributed only 16, his 68-run partnership with skipper Gaikwad took Supremos to a decent total in the ninth over. After More’s dismissal, Gaikwad and Vishal Bhilare went about pushing the score and did that in style by putting on 77 runs for the fourth wicket before Gaikwad gave a catch to Virag Awate off Parikshit Jadhav’s bowling.
Gaikwad made 79 off 48 balls with nine fours and three sixes. Incidentally, this was the batsman’s MPL-best and the highest score of the day. Bhilare remained unbeaten on 49 off 43 balls with three fours and one six.
Brief Scores
Sinhagad Supremos: 153 for 5; 20 overs (Ganesh Gaikwad 79, Vishal Bhilare 49 n.o., Parikshit Jadhav 1/26, Naseer Momin 1/34, Kiran Adhav 1/21) beat Torna Tigers: 77 for 2; 12.0 overs (Kedar Jadhav 39, Virag Awate 28 n.o., Akshay Darekar 1/22, Moshin Mulla 1/3).
Toss: Sinhagad Supremos won, elected to bat.
Man-Of-The-Match: Ganesh Gaikwad (Supremos)
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| Sinhagad Supremos Skipper Ganesh Gaikwad During His Match Winning Knock of 79 Runs of 48 Balls |
Retreating monsoon rains caused its first casualty in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League when the Duckworth-Lewis Method struck down easy-going Torna Tigers. Result: Tigers lost the first-ever MPL match decided by this system to Sinhagad Supremos by six runs at Deccan Gymkhana.
Supremos thus maintained their winning run against Tigers, though it would be apt to say that Tigers had almost managed to reverse their own fortunes.
Chasing a challenging target of 153/5 set by Supremos, Tigers were propped up by Kedar Jadhav’s 25-ball 39, but after he got out in most silly manner, Torna were left to rue their chances when downpour suddenly began in the 12th overs.
Torna Tigers were 77/2 in 12.0 overs and needed to be on 83 to be winning the match on D/L method but it was not to be.
Opener Virag Awate remained unbeaten on 28, but he had consumed 35 balls and struck only three fours. In contrast, it was Kedar Jadhav’s rollicking 39 with three fours and as many sixes that stood out and enthralled the good crowd that gathered at the ground. Jadhav was in fine nick, but in his hurry to speed up the innings, he missed the line of Mudassar Mulla’s delivery and was stumped by Vishant More.
Parikshit Jadhav (2 not out) was at the other end when rains halted the match. Umpires waited for more than an hour before announcing that D/L method would apply as no more play was possible.
Earlier, electing to bat, Sinhagad Supremos suffered two early blows when opener Ameya Shrikhande and one-down Mansingh Nigde were back in the pavilion without opening their accounts. But Vishant More and Man-Of-The-Match Ganesh Gaikwad steadied the innings and raised the tempo.
Though More contributed only 16, his 68-run partnership with skipper Gaikwad took Supremos to a decent total in the ninth over. After More’s dismissal, Gaikwad and Vishal Bhilare went about pushing the score and did that in style by putting on 77 runs for the fourth wicket before Gaikwad gave a catch to Virag Awate off Parikshit Jadhav’s bowling.
Gaikwad made 79 off 48 balls with nine fours and three sixes. Incidentally, this was the batsman’s MPL-best and the highest score of the day. Bhilare remained unbeaten on 49 off 43 balls with three fours and one six.
Brief Scores
Sinhagad Supremos: 153 for 5; 20 overs (Ganesh Gaikwad 79, Vishal Bhilare 49 n.o., Parikshit Jadhav 1/26, Naseer Momin 1/34, Kiran Adhav 1/21) beat Torna Tigers: 77 for 2; 12.0 overs (Kedar Jadhav 39, Virag Awate 28 n.o., Akshay Darekar 1/22, Moshin Mulla 1/3).
Toss: Sinhagad Supremos won, elected to bat.
Man-Of-The-Match: Ganesh Gaikwad (Supremos)
Match 1: Royals lord over Panthers
All rounder Sangram Atitkar helps Raigad Royals overcome opening match blues.
Raigad Royals captain Rohit Motwani found an able ally in Pravin Shetty after bowlers Sunil Patel and Shrikant Munde had helped restrict Panhala Panthers to a modest total of 124, which was overwhelmed with 3.2 overs to spare in the opening match at the Deccan Gymkhana Ground.
The six-wicket win for Royals made them third time lucky as they overcome their opening match blues in the past two editions of the contest. For Panhala Panthers this the first time they opened with a loss!
After winning the toss, Motwani call to field first was proved right by Nikhil Paradkar (1 for 3) and Sunil Patel (3 for 26) as Raigad reduced Panhala Panthers to three for 33 after having taken two wickets with just three runs on the board.
Only Vipul Jeurkar managed to stand his ground and offer some resistance in company of Dipak Shilamkar (17) as the two posted 38 runs for the fourth wicket but after then Panthers kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Jeurkar made 49 before he was caught behind by Motwani off Shrikant Munde (2 for 27) as Panthers folded at 124 in 19.2 overs.
The chase was easy for Raigad regardless of losing former skipper and opener Harshad Khadiwale for a naught in the first over itself. That did not deter Motwani and Shetty to go for shots as the two put on 67 runs for the second wicket before the Raigad skipper was caught by Satyajit Jadhav off Manish Desai’s bowling for 19.
Shetty, however, stuck on and Sangram Atitkar joined him to smash some easy runs. Shetty was out for 46, caught by Tushar Shrivastav off Anupam Sanklecha’s bowling for 46. Atitkar remained unbeaten on 30 after Nikhil Paradkar went in to score 12. Shrikant Munde (9 not out) saw to it that no more hiccups came in the way of the well-deserved victory for Raigad Royals. Anupam Sanklecha and Manish Desai returned with two wickets apiece, but their efforts went in vain eventually.
Brief Scores
Panhala Panthers: 124; 19.2 overs (Vipul Jeurkar 49, Deepak Shilamkar 17, Prathamesh Pawar 11; Sumit Patel 3/26, Sangram Atitkar 2/15) lost to Raigad Royals: 125 for 4; 16.4 (Pravin Shetty 46, Sangram Atitkar 30 n.o, Rohit Motwani 19; Anupam Sanklecha 2/13, M Desai 2/21) – by 6-wkts
Toss: Raigad won, decided to field.
Man-Of-The-Match: Sangram Atitkar (Raigad Royals)
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| Shrikant Mundhe of Raigad Royals Exults After Dismissing Manish Desai of Panhala Panthers |
Raigad Royals captain Rohit Motwani found an able ally in Pravin Shetty after bowlers Sunil Patel and Shrikant Munde had helped restrict Panhala Panthers to a modest total of 124, which was overwhelmed with 3.2 overs to spare in the opening match at the Deccan Gymkhana Ground.
The six-wicket win for Royals made them third time lucky as they overcome their opening match blues in the past two editions of the contest. For Panhala Panthers this the first time they opened with a loss!
After winning the toss, Motwani call to field first was proved right by Nikhil Paradkar (1 for 3) and Sunil Patel (3 for 26) as Raigad reduced Panhala Panthers to three for 33 after having taken two wickets with just three runs on the board.
Only Vipul Jeurkar managed to stand his ground and offer some resistance in company of Dipak Shilamkar (17) as the two posted 38 runs for the fourth wicket but after then Panthers kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Jeurkar made 49 before he was caught behind by Motwani off Shrikant Munde (2 for 27) as Panthers folded at 124 in 19.2 overs.
The chase was easy for Raigad regardless of losing former skipper and opener Harshad Khadiwale for a naught in the first over itself. That did not deter Motwani and Shetty to go for shots as the two put on 67 runs for the second wicket before the Raigad skipper was caught by Satyajit Jadhav off Manish Desai’s bowling for 19.
Shetty, however, stuck on and Sangram Atitkar joined him to smash some easy runs. Shetty was out for 46, caught by Tushar Shrivastav off Anupam Sanklecha’s bowling for 46. Atitkar remained unbeaten on 30 after Nikhil Paradkar went in to score 12. Shrikant Munde (9 not out) saw to it that no more hiccups came in the way of the well-deserved victory for Raigad Royals. Anupam Sanklecha and Manish Desai returned with two wickets apiece, but their efforts went in vain eventually.
Brief Scores
Panhala Panthers: 124; 19.2 overs (Vipul Jeurkar 49, Deepak Shilamkar 17, Prathamesh Pawar 11; Sumit Patel 3/26, Sangram Atitkar 2/15) lost to Raigad Royals: 125 for 4; 16.4 (Pravin Shetty 46, Sangram Atitkar 30 n.o, Rohit Motwani 19; Anupam Sanklecha 2/13, M Desai 2/21) – by 6-wkts
Toss: Raigad won, decided to field.
Man-Of-The-Match: Sangram Atitkar (Raigad Royals)
MPL T20 Head To Head: Day 2
MATCH 5: Deccan Gymkhana: Devgiri Emperors 1-1 Panhala Panthers
RESULTS
04/5/2009 (L) : Panthers won by 41-runs – Deccan Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L) : Emperors won by 6-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
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MATCH 6: Deccan Gymkhana: Sindhudurg Sailors 1-1 Torna Tigers
RESULTS
05/5/2009 (L) : Tigers won by 31-runs – Deccan Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L) : Sailors won by 6-wkts - Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
_______________________________________________________________
MATCH 7: Poona Club: Sinhagad Supremos 2-1 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
05/5/2009 (L) : Supremos won by 2-wkts – Deccan Gymkhana
21/5/2010 (L) : Lions won by 4-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
27/5/2010 (S) : Supremos won by 6-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
_______________________________________________________________
MATCH 8: Poona Club: Raigad Royals 2-1 Pratapgad Warriors
RESULTS
04/5/2009 (L) : Warriors won by 2-runs – PYC Hindu Gymkhana
14/5/2010 (F) : Royals won by 6 wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
19/5/2010 (L) : Royals won by 7-wkts - Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final
RESULTS
04/5/2009 (L) : Panthers won by 41-runs – Deccan Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L) : Emperors won by 6-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Emperors : 2009: L-L-L-L-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-W-W-W-L
Panthers : 2009: W-L-L-L-W-W-W
: 2010: W-L-W—L-W-L-W-L
_______________________________________________________________
MATCH 6: Deccan Gymkhana: Sindhudurg Sailors 1-1 Torna Tigers
RESULTS
05/5/2009 (L) : Tigers won by 31-runs – Deccan Gymkhana
23/5/2010 (L) : Sailors won by 6-wkts - Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Sailors : 2009: L-L-L-W-W-L-L
: 2010: L-L-L-L—L-W-W
Tigers : 2009: L-W-L-W-W-L-W-L
: 2010: W-L-L-L-L-L-L
_______________________________________________________________
MATCH 7: Poona Club: Sinhagad Supremos 2-1 Shivneri Lions
RESULTS
05/5/2009 (L) : Supremos won by 2-wkts – Deccan Gymkhana
21/5/2010 (L) : Lions won by 4-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
27/5/2010 (S) : Supremos won by 6-wkts - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Supremos : 2009: W-W-W-W-W-L-L--L
: 2010: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
Lions : 2009: W-L-L-W-L-L-L
: 2010: W-W-W-W-L-L-L-L
_______________________________________________________________
MATCH 8: Poona Club: Raigad Royals 2-1 Pratapgad Warriors
RESULTS
04/5/2009 (L) : Warriors won by 2-runs – PYC Hindu Gymkhana
14/5/2010 (F) : Royals won by 6 wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
19/5/2010 (L) : Royals won by 7-wkts - Poona Club
FORM RUN (MPL1 & MPL 2)
Royals : 2009: L-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-W
: 2010: L-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-L
Warriors : 2009: W-W-W-L-L-W-W-W-L
: 2010: L-W-L-W-L-L-W
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final
MPL III Preview
Pune, September 27: Defending champion Sinhagad Supremos and the 2010 runners-up Raigad Royals will open their campaign in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) at Deccan Gymkhana Ground on Wednesday against opponents whom they have beaten on all occasions in the past.
The winners of inaugural edition in 2009, Raigad Royals will take on Panhala Panthers in the first match at Deccan Gymkhana soon after the brief inauguration ceremony to be attended by Deccan Gymkhana Chairman Abhay Apte, CottonKing owner Pradeep Marathe and Sakal Media Group Director Uday Jadhav.
Royals have been a top team in both editions and when they meet Panhala Panthers, against whom they have 3-0 record, including a semi-final win last year at DY Patil Stadium in Nerul, all eyes will be on them.
They are the only team who have a foreign coach this year in Dermot Reeve. The former England international has been with them since the first season and has shaped the team well for the coming season too.
In the afternoon, Sinhagad Supremos will meet Torna Tigers against whom they have 2-0 record, including a 3-run win at the same ground in 2009.
The Poona Club will witness Serum Institute-owned Shivneri Lions take on Sidhudurg Sailors in the morning after the inauguration ceremony.
Former Test player and India captain Chandu Borde will be the chief guest at Poona Club with Rahul Dholepatil and Sakaal Media Business Head LS Krishnan also present.
The afternoon match will put Pratapgad Warriors against Devgiri Emperors, whom the former have beaten in both the encounters.
CottonKing has, for the third year, remained titled sponsor for the MPL. The associate sponsors are Indo Batteries, Man of the Match sponsor DY Developers, Beverage partner Urja, Food partner Red Carpet Academy, Radio Partner Radio Mirchi, Outdoor Partner Surekha Advertising, Web Partner Dimakh Consultants, Communication Partner Setu Advertising, Official executors White Copper Entertainment.
Wednesday’s matches:
Panhala Panthers v Raigad Royals, 9 am, Deccan Gymkhana
Torna Tigers v Sinhagad Supremos, 2 pm, Deccan Gymkhana
Shivneri Lions v Sindhudurg Sailors, 9 am, Poona Club
Devgiri Emperors v Pratapgad Warriors, 2 pm, Poona Club
Cash Prizes
Particulars Qty Prize Amount
Winners 1 700000 700,000
Runners Up 1 500000 500,000
Man of the series 1 50000 50,000
Best Batsman 1 30000 30,000
Best Bowler 1 30000 30,000
Best Fielder 1 30000 30,000
Man of the Match 31 5000 155,000
Head to Head: Day 1
Deccan Gymkhana:
Match 1: Raigad Royals 3-0 Panhala Panthers
05/5/2009 (L): Royals won by 9-wkts – Deccan Gymkhana
18/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 6 wkts - Poona Club
27/5/2010 (S): Royals won by 8-runs - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
Match 2: Sinhagad Supremos 2-0 Torna Tigers
04/5/2009 (L): Supremos won by 3 runs - Deccan Gymkhana
20/5/2010 (L): Supremos won by 21 runs - Poona Club
Poona Club:
Match 3: Shivneri Lions 2-0 Sindhudurg Sailors
04/5/2009 (L): Lions won by 5-wkts - PYC Gymkhana
20/5/2010 (L): Lions won by 9-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
Match 4: Pratapgad Warriors 2-0 Devgiri Emperors
05/5/2009 (L): Warriors won by 7-wkts - PYC Gymkhana
18/5/2010 (L): Warriors won by 7-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final.
Last year’s finalists in action at Deccan Gymkhana
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All Set for the battle...
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Pune, September 27: Defending champion Sinhagad Supremos and the 2010 runners-up Raigad Royals will open their campaign in the 2011 Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) at Deccan Gymkhana Ground on Wednesday against opponents whom they have beaten on all occasions in the past.
The winners of inaugural edition in 2009, Raigad Royals will take on Panhala Panthers in the first match at Deccan Gymkhana soon after the brief inauguration ceremony to be attended by Deccan Gymkhana Chairman Abhay Apte, CottonKing owner Pradeep Marathe and Sakal Media Group Director Uday Jadhav.
Royals have been a top team in both editions and when they meet Panhala Panthers, against whom they have 3-0 record, including a semi-final win last year at DY Patil Stadium in Nerul, all eyes will be on them.
They are the only team who have a foreign coach this year in Dermot Reeve. The former England international has been with them since the first season and has shaped the team well for the coming season too.
In the afternoon, Sinhagad Supremos will meet Torna Tigers against whom they have 2-0 record, including a 3-run win at the same ground in 2009.
The Poona Club will witness Serum Institute-owned Shivneri Lions take on Sidhudurg Sailors in the morning after the inauguration ceremony.
Former Test player and India captain Chandu Borde will be the chief guest at Poona Club with Rahul Dholepatil and Sakaal Media Business Head LS Krishnan also present.
The afternoon match will put Pratapgad Warriors against Devgiri Emperors, whom the former have beaten in both the encounters.
CottonKing has, for the third year, remained titled sponsor for the MPL. The associate sponsors are Indo Batteries, Man of the Match sponsor DY Developers, Beverage partner Urja, Food partner Red Carpet Academy, Radio Partner Radio Mirchi, Outdoor Partner Surekha Advertising, Web Partner Dimakh Consultants, Communication Partner Setu Advertising, Official executors White Copper Entertainment.
Wednesday’s matches:
Panhala Panthers v Raigad Royals, 9 am, Deccan Gymkhana
Torna Tigers v Sinhagad Supremos, 2 pm, Deccan Gymkhana
Shivneri Lions v Sindhudurg Sailors, 9 am, Poona Club
Devgiri Emperors v Pratapgad Warriors, 2 pm, Poona Club
Cash Prizes
Particulars Qty Prize Amount
Winners 1 700000 700,000
Runners Up 1 500000 500,000
Man of the series 1 50000 50,000
Best Batsman 1 30000 30,000
Best Bowler 1 30000 30,000
Best Fielder 1 30000 30,000
Man of the Match 31 5000 155,000
Head to Head: Day 1
Deccan Gymkhana:
Match 1: Raigad Royals 3-0 Panhala Panthers
05/5/2009 (L): Royals won by 9-wkts – Deccan Gymkhana
18/5/2010 (L): Royals won by 6 wkts - Poona Club
27/5/2010 (S): Royals won by 8-runs - DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
Match 2: Sinhagad Supremos 2-0 Torna Tigers
04/5/2009 (L): Supremos won by 3 runs - Deccan Gymkhana
20/5/2010 (L): Supremos won by 21 runs - Poona Club
Poona Club:
Match 3: Shivneri Lions 2-0 Sindhudurg Sailors
04/5/2009 (L): Lions won by 5-wkts - PYC Gymkhana
20/5/2010 (L): Lions won by 9-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
Match 4: Pratapgad Warriors 2-0 Devgiri Emperors
05/5/2009 (L): Warriors won by 7-wkts - PYC Gymkhana
18/5/2010 (L): Warriors won by 7-wkts - Deccan Gymkhana
* Note: (L) – League Game; S – Semifinal; F – Final.
Sagar becomes Pune’s voice for MPL
Wins from among 123 aspirants, Sagar Pednekar impresses stand-up imitation expert Vikram Sathye, He becomes the fourth voice of 2011 MPL
Pune, September 25: It was one of the biggest gathering of the four-city competition and that makes Sagar Pednekar one deserving winner from Pune to be part of the Live commentary team for the forthcoming Maharashtra Premier League Twenty20 cricket tournament that begins on September 28.
Passing through three rounds and intense competition and questioning from judges, Pednekar became the fourth winner of the 2011 MPL’s Commentators Hunt titled ‘Tondi Cricket’ at its stop in Pune.
As much as 123 participants including those from far off places such as Nagpur and Parali Vaijanath had made their way for the auditions.
As was in last three cities, there were three rounds. Primarily, the participants had to watch a clip of a match without the audio footage in the first round. They had to share their views on the happenings and from here 8 progressed to Round 2, where the competition as well as the tasks got tougher.
In the Round 2, each participant was made to conduct a toss and interview team captains depending upon the situations they were given. Some contestant did excellent imitations of famous cricketing personalities such as Tony Grieg and Vikram Sathaye, who himself was present for the auditions. The participants were thrilled to get valuable tips from Sathaye himself.
Finally, it was Pednekar who emerged the deserving winner in all the tasks. In the final round they were to prepare and present a post- match Analysis. The final winner was selected based on his performance in the final round from where Pednekar will assemble with three other winners on September 27 to be part of the MPL 2011 where he will be groomed and trained by Radio Mirchi RJs.
Pednekar will do pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes and much more during the MPL games. The final four will be judged on their performance during this phase and given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses.
Sports presenter and well-known VJ Gaurav Kapur, who is also the face of the contest and the host for the final, will select the final winner post the league stage.
Pune, September 25: It was one of the biggest gathering of the four-city competition and that makes Sagar Pednekar one deserving winner from Pune to be part of the Live commentary team for the forthcoming Maharashtra Premier League Twenty20 cricket tournament that begins on September 28.
Passing through three rounds and intense competition and questioning from judges, Pednekar became the fourth winner of the 2011 MPL’s Commentators Hunt titled ‘Tondi Cricket’ at its stop in Pune.
As much as 123 participants including those from far off places such as Nagpur and Parali Vaijanath had made their way for the auditions.
As was in last three cities, there were three rounds. Primarily, the participants had to watch a clip of a match without the audio footage in the first round. They had to share their views on the happenings and from here 8 progressed to Round 2, where the competition as well as the tasks got tougher.
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| Sagar Pednekar all thumbs up after winning at Pune Auditions |
In the Round 2, each participant was made to conduct a toss and interview team captains depending upon the situations they were given. Some contestant did excellent imitations of famous cricketing personalities such as Tony Grieg and Vikram Sathaye, who himself was present for the auditions. The participants were thrilled to get valuable tips from Sathaye himself.
Finally, it was Pednekar who emerged the deserving winner in all the tasks. In the final round they were to prepare and present a post- match Analysis. The final winner was selected based on his performance in the final round from where Pednekar will assemble with three other winners on September 27 to be part of the MPL 2011 where he will be groomed and trained by Radio Mirchi RJs.
Pednekar will do pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes and much more during the MPL games. The final four will be judged on their performance during this phase and given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses.
Sports presenter and well-known VJ Gaurav Kapur, who is also the face of the contest and the host for the final, will select the final winner post the league stage.
Mrugendraa brings Kolhapuri tadka to cricket
Selected from among 47 aspirants, Mrugendraa Patil brings excellent knowledge and charismatic presentation skills. He becomes the third voice of 2011 MPL .
Pune, September 23: Mrugendraa Patil is a cricket fanatic at heart. His knowledge is unparalleled in the given circumstances and this Kolhapuri has unique presentation skills, which stood in good stead for him to win the vote from Kolhapur to be part of the Live commentary team for the forthcoming Maharashtra Premier League Twenty20 cricket tournament that begins on September 28.
Passing through three rounds and intense competition and questioning from judges, Patil became the third winner of the 2011 MPL’s Commentators Hunt titled ‘Tondi Cricket’ at its stop in Kolhapur.
Forty-seven participants including a large number of experienced commentators made their way to Madhusudhan Hall for the auditions.
As was in Nashik and Aurangabad, there were three rounds. Primarily, the participants had to watch a clip of a match without the audio footage in the first round. They had to share their views on the happenings and from here only 6 progressed to Round 2, where the competition as well as the tasks got tougher.
In the Round 2, each participant was made to conduct a toss and interview team captains depending upon the situations they were given. A few contestants added the Kolhapuri Tadka to the audition, fascinating the judges by their ability to spice up the commentary and bring the local flavour alive.
But it was Patil who emerged the deserving winner in all the tasks. In the final round they were to prepare and present a post- match Analysis. The final winner was selected based on his performance in the final round from where Patil will travel to Pune on September 27 to be part of the MPL 2011 where he will be groomed and trained by Radio Mirchi RJs.
Patil will do pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes and much more during the MPL games. Winners from one more city—Pune is to be found. The final four will be judged on their performance during this phase and given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses. Patil impressed the judges with his attention to detail, and clarity of thought.
Sports presenter and well-known VJ Gaurav Kapur, who is also the face of the contest and the host for the final, will select the final winner post the league stage.
Pune, September 23: Mrugendraa Patil is a cricket fanatic at heart. His knowledge is unparalleled in the given circumstances and this Kolhapuri has unique presentation skills, which stood in good stead for him to win the vote from Kolhapur to be part of the Live commentary team for the forthcoming Maharashtra Premier League Twenty20 cricket tournament that begins on September 28.
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| Mrugendraa - MPL Commentator Hunt Kolhapur Winer |
Passing through three rounds and intense competition and questioning from judges, Patil became the third winner of the 2011 MPL’s Commentators Hunt titled ‘Tondi Cricket’ at its stop in Kolhapur.
Forty-seven participants including a large number of experienced commentators made their way to Madhusudhan Hall for the auditions.
As was in Nashik and Aurangabad, there were three rounds. Primarily, the participants had to watch a clip of a match without the audio footage in the first round. They had to share their views on the happenings and from here only 6 progressed to Round 2, where the competition as well as the tasks got tougher.
In the Round 2, each participant was made to conduct a toss and interview team captains depending upon the situations they were given. A few contestants added the Kolhapuri Tadka to the audition, fascinating the judges by their ability to spice up the commentary and bring the local flavour alive.
But it was Patil who emerged the deserving winner in all the tasks. In the final round they were to prepare and present a post- match Analysis. The final winner was selected based on his performance in the final round from where Patil will travel to Pune on September 27 to be part of the MPL 2011 where he will be groomed and trained by Radio Mirchi RJs.
Patil will do pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes and much more during the MPL games. Winners from one more city—Pune is to be found. The final four will be judged on their performance during this phase and given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses. Patil impressed the judges with his attention to detail, and clarity of thought.
Sports presenter and well-known VJ Gaurav Kapur, who is also the face of the contest and the host for the final, will select the final winner post the league stage.
Lifelong dream comes true of Karkhanis
Selected from among 93 participants, live commentating is not new to Nitin Karkhanis of Parbhani. He will now be one of the voice of 2011 MPL
Pune, September 22: Nitin Karkhanis has been bringing cricket live to people of Parbhani for over 30 years. But those were very local matches and with no high-tech gadgetry to support. A new season is set to dawn on Karkhanis’s career as he becomes the part of the Live commentary team for the forthcoming Maharashtra
Premier League Twenty20 cricket tournament that begins on September 28.
Passing through three rounds and intense competition and questioning from judges, Karkhanis became the second winner of the 2011 MPL’s Commentators Hunt titled ‘Tondi Cricket’ at its stop in Aurangabad.
Over 93 participants including a wild card entrant, Dinesh Kachare, who was selected by Radio Mirchi’s On Air Hunt, provided huge response to the contest. They were from a wide range of backgrounds and age group at the Kalash Mangal Karyalaya for the auditions.
As was in Nashik, there were three rounds. Primarily, the participants had to watch a clip of a match without the audio footage in the first round. They had to share their views on the happenings and from here 20 progressed to Round 2, where the competition as well as the task got tougher.
Of the 93 entrants, 10 progressed to Round 2, where the competition as well as the task got tougher. Apart from the usual commentary, the participants added their personal flavour to the tasks. While a few presented with Sidhu type humour, others mimicked famous personalities including Amitabh Bachchan and Nana Patekar, while commentating on the clip.
In the Round 2, each participant was made to conduct a toss and interview team captains depending upon the situations they were given. Only three could live up to the standard and made through to the Final Round. They were Viraj Deshpande, Kaleem Patel and Karkhanis.
The deserving trio was now given a single task—to prepare and present a post- match Analysis. The final winner was selected based on his performance in the final round from where Dongare excellent and now he will travel to Pune on September 27 to be part of the MPL 2011 where he will be groomed and trained by Radio Mirchi RJs.
Karkhanis will do pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes and much more during the MPL games. Winners from two more cities—Kolhapur and Pune—are yet to be found. The final four will be judged on their performance during this phase and given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses.
Nitin had undertaken 4-hour-long journey from Parbhani to Aurangabad, to compete in Tondi Cricket. He has been commentating and hosting local cricket matches for the past 30 years. Unable to contain his tears at his victory, He confessed that he had now achieved his lifelong dream as he immediately called his family and exclaimed “Jallosh!”
Sports presenter and well-known VJ Gaurav Kapur, who is also the face of the contest and the host for the final, will select the final winner post the league stage.
Pune, September 22: Nitin Karkhanis has been bringing cricket live to people of Parbhani for over 30 years. But those were very local matches and with no high-tech gadgetry to support. A new season is set to dawn on Karkhanis’s career as he becomes the part of the Live commentary team for the forthcoming Maharashtra
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| Nitin Karkhanis Winner Aurangabad Auditions |
Premier League Twenty20 cricket tournament that begins on September 28.
Passing through three rounds and intense competition and questioning from judges, Karkhanis became the second winner of the 2011 MPL’s Commentators Hunt titled ‘Tondi Cricket’ at its stop in Aurangabad.
Over 93 participants including a wild card entrant, Dinesh Kachare, who was selected by Radio Mirchi’s On Air Hunt, provided huge response to the contest. They were from a wide range of backgrounds and age group at the Kalash Mangal Karyalaya for the auditions.
As was in Nashik, there were three rounds. Primarily, the participants had to watch a clip of a match without the audio footage in the first round. They had to share their views on the happenings and from here 20 progressed to Round 2, where the competition as well as the task got tougher.
Of the 93 entrants, 10 progressed to Round 2, where the competition as well as the task got tougher. Apart from the usual commentary, the participants added their personal flavour to the tasks. While a few presented with Sidhu type humour, others mimicked famous personalities including Amitabh Bachchan and Nana Patekar, while commentating on the clip.
In the Round 2, each participant was made to conduct a toss and interview team captains depending upon the situations they were given. Only three could live up to the standard and made through to the Final Round. They were Viraj Deshpande, Kaleem Patel and Karkhanis.
The deserving trio was now given a single task—to prepare and present a post- match Analysis. The final winner was selected based on his performance in the final round from where Dongare excellent and now he will travel to Pune on September 27 to be part of the MPL 2011 where he will be groomed and trained by Radio Mirchi RJs.
Karkhanis will do pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes and much more during the MPL games. Winners from two more cities—Kolhapur and Pune—are yet to be found. The final four will be judged on their performance during this phase and given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses.
Nitin had undertaken 4-hour-long journey from Parbhani to Aurangabad, to compete in Tondi Cricket. He has been commentating and hosting local cricket matches for the past 30 years. Unable to contain his tears at his victory, He confessed that he had now achieved his lifelong dream as he immediately called his family and exclaimed “Jallosh!”
Sports presenter and well-known VJ Gaurav Kapur, who is also the face of the contest and the host for the final, will select the final winner post the league stage.
Nashik’s Dongare gets to voice cricket in Marathi
Selected from among 65 participants, Prasad Dongare will be part of commentating team for 2011 Maharashtra Premier League
Pune, September 20: Computer science student Prasad Dongare from Nashik might as well have struck the right node and opened a brand new career option of Live Commentating on Cricket.
Passing through three rounds and intense competition and questioning from judges, Dongare became the first winner of the Maharashtra Premier League’s Commentators Hunt titled ‘Tondi Cricket’ at its first stop in Nashik.
Over 65 participants including a few women vied for the post as the contest received a warm response from people of a wide range of backgrounds and age group at the Lakshika Hall for the auditions.
Primarily, the participants had to watch a clip of a match without the audio footage in the first round. They had to share their views on the happenings and from here 20 progressed to Round 2, where the competitionas well as the task got tougher.
In the Round 2, each participant was made to conduct a toss and interview team captains depending upon the situations they were given. A total of five were made through to the Final Round.
Those deserving quintet was now given a single task—to prepare and present a post- match Analysis. The final winner was selected based on his performance in the final round from where Dongare excelled and now he will travel to Pune on September 27 to be part of the MPL 2011 where he will be groomed and trained by Radio Mirchi RJs.
Dongare will do pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes and much more during the MPL games.
Like him, there will be winners from the three more cities—Aurangabad, Kolhapur and Pune—and they will be judged on their performance during this phase and given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses.
Sports presenter and well-known VJ Gaurav Kapur, who is also the face of the contest and the host for the final, will select the final winner post the league stage.
Apart from the eventual winner, the auditions also had a bright shining star 12-year-old Soham Shahane, who impressed the panel of judges with his outstanding composure during the audition.
Pune, September 20: Computer science student Prasad Dongare from Nashik might as well have struck the right node and opened a brand new career option of Live Commentating on Cricket.
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| Commentator's Hunt Nashik winner- Prasad Dongare |
Passing through three rounds and intense competition and questioning from judges, Dongare became the first winner of the Maharashtra Premier League’s Commentators Hunt titled ‘Tondi Cricket’ at its first stop in Nashik.
Over 65 participants including a few women vied for the post as the contest received a warm response from people of a wide range of backgrounds and age group at the Lakshika Hall for the auditions.
Primarily, the participants had to watch a clip of a match without the audio footage in the first round. They had to share their views on the happenings and from here 20 progressed to Round 2, where the competitionas well as the task got tougher.
In the Round 2, each participant was made to conduct a toss and interview team captains depending upon the situations they were given. A total of five were made through to the Final Round.
Those deserving quintet was now given a single task—to prepare and present a post- match Analysis. The final winner was selected based on his performance in the final round from where Dongare excelled and now he will travel to Pune on September 27 to be part of the MPL 2011 where he will be groomed and trained by Radio Mirchi RJs.
Dongare will do pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes and much more during the MPL games.
Like him, there will be winners from the three more cities—Aurangabad, Kolhapur and Pune—and they will be judged on their performance during this phase and given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses.
Sports presenter and well-known VJ Gaurav Kapur, who is also the face of the contest and the host for the final, will select the final winner post the league stage.
Apart from the eventual winner, the auditions also had a bright shining star 12-year-old Soham Shahane, who impressed the panel of judges with his outstanding composure during the audition.
Want To Be A Cricket Commentator? Here's Your Chance
Gaurav Kapoor- the face of Commentator Hunt Contest PUNE, 17 SEPTEMBER: Are you passionate about cricket? Did you play cricket fiercely before being forced to give it up for studies? Here is your chance to get associated with the game, without holding the bat or a ball in your hand.
The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), the biggest cricket extravaganza in the State, brings you an exciting contest, the MPL Commentator hunt (Tondi Cricket). The contest will be held in four major cities in the State -- Kolhapur, Pune, Nashik and Aurangabad
Maharashtra Premier League, a joint venture by the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group, is the first ever State owned T20 tournament in India, designed to provide a platform to cricketers across various districts of the State. So if you feel you have a unique style, have a flair for speaking, and that your ‘cricket gyaan’ has its own value, here is your opportunity.
The contest would be held in Nashik on September 19, Aurangabad (September 21), Kolhapur (September 23), and in MPL’s hometown Pune on September 25. The contest is open for anyone, and contestants will get a choice of speaking in English, Hindi or Marathi. A panel of experts and RJ's from Radio Mirchi would judge the contestants and one winner will be picked from each of the four cities. All the winners will then be called in to Pune on September 27, a day before the MPL-III kicks off, and will be groomed and trained by the panel of experts and Radio Mirchi RJ’s
They will be given live assignments during the MPL games - pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes, etc. The contestants will be judged on their performance during this phase and will be given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses. Post the league stage is when Gaurav Kapur, one of India’s top VJ, Actor, Sports Presenter who is also the face of the contest will select the final winner Gaurav will also be the host for the MPL final and add his own touch to the event.
Gaurav Kapoor- the face of Commentator Hunt ContestThe Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), the biggest cricket extravaganza in the State, brings you an exciting contest, the MPL Commentator hunt (Tondi Cricket). The contest will be held in four major cities in the State -- Kolhapur, Pune, Nashik and Aurangabad
Maharashtra Premier League, a joint venture by the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group, is the first ever State owned T20 tournament in India, designed to provide a platform to cricketers across various districts of the State. So if you feel you have a unique style, have a flair for speaking, and that your ‘cricket gyaan’ has its own value, here is your opportunity.
The contest would be held in Nashik on September 19, Aurangabad (September 21), Kolhapur (September 23), and in MPL’s hometown Pune on September 25. The contest is open for anyone, and contestants will get a choice of speaking in English, Hindi or Marathi. A panel of experts and RJ's from Radio Mirchi would judge the contestants and one winner will be picked from each of the four cities. All the winners will then be called in to Pune on September 27, a day before the MPL-III kicks off, and will be groomed and trained by the panel of experts and Radio Mirchi RJ’s
They will be given live assignments during the MPL games - pitch reports, post match presentations, player interviews, fan bytes, radio bytes, etc. The contestants will be judged on their performance during this phase and will be given tips to better themselves as the tournament progresses. Post the league stage is when Gaurav Kapur, one of India’s top VJ, Actor, Sports Presenter who is also the face of the contest will select the final winner Gaurav will also be the host for the MPL final and add his own touch to the event.
‘Four’ emerge champions of champions in MPL Super Skills
PUNE, SEPTEMBER 18, 2011 : Team ‘Four’ edged out Pashan Friends by a single point to finish as the Champions of Champions in the MPL Super Skills event at the BMCC ground on Sunday.
On the last day of this four-day event, being staged by the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group- joint organisers of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL)- as many as 205 teams registered, forcing the organisers to stop taking any more registrations.
With two teams being tied at 18 points till the end of Day Three, there were as many as six teams who scored above 20 points on the last day.
Amidst a huge excitement on a busy Sunday at the BMCC ground, ‘Four’ did their basics right, took all their catches (six points) got two points in throwing and one in bowling, and then did the unthinkable. Sumit Kurhade scored 18 points in the batting, hitting the six-point board thrice. The six-point board was placed at the fine-leg, and was quite difficult to hit. Shahbuddin Rogangar did the catching, Yogesh Lunawat did the throwing, while Waqar Sayyed did the bowling for the winners.
National selector and former Maharashtra captain Surendra Bhave visited the event on Sunday, and had a shot at batting and throwing. "I am very happy to see the kind of response the event has got. It’s a great opportunity for a common man to play against the bowling machine. I am also happy to see the female participation in the event," Bhave said.
Runners-up Pashan Friends scored six out of six in catching, scored three in throwing, and two in bowling, before striking the six-point board twice while batting. Their total of 23 went up to 26, as they got three bonus points for having a female member in the team.
Team A.R.S.S. also finished on 26 points (Catching 6, Throwing 3, Bowling 1, Batting 16). ARS finished as the third best team, as they scored less points in bowling compared to Pashan Friends.
Kaushik Marathe, CEO, Cottonking gave away the prizes. ‘Four’ won the Champion of the Day cash prize of Rs 10,000, and Shirts for each member of the team and also were declared as the Champion of Champions of the MPL Super Skills Contest bagging a cash prize of Rs. 25,000, therby making their prize tally to a whopping amount of Rs. 35,000 while the team members of the Pashan Friends and A.R.S. got Shirts.
The Champion of Champions award would be presented to the team ‘Four’ during the MPL final presentation.
A total of 563 teams participated in the MPL Super Skills.
On the last day of this four-day event, being staged by the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group- joint organisers of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL)- as many as 205 teams registered, forcing the organisers to stop taking any more registrations.
With two teams being tied at 18 points till the end of Day Three, there were as many as six teams who scored above 20 points on the last day.
Amidst a huge excitement on a busy Sunday at the BMCC ground, ‘Four’ did their basics right, took all their catches (six points) got two points in throwing and one in bowling, and then did the unthinkable. Sumit Kurhade scored 18 points in the batting, hitting the six-point board thrice. The six-point board was placed at the fine-leg, and was quite difficult to hit. Shahbuddin Rogangar did the catching, Yogesh Lunawat did the throwing, while Waqar Sayyed did the bowling for the winners.
National selector and former Maharashtra captain Surendra Bhave visited the event on Sunday, and had a shot at batting and throwing. "I am very happy to see the kind of response the event has got. It’s a great opportunity for a common man to play against the bowling machine. I am also happy to see the female participation in the event," Bhave said.
Runners-up Pashan Friends scored six out of six in catching, scored three in throwing, and two in bowling, before striking the six-point board twice while batting. Their total of 23 went up to 26, as they got three bonus points for having a female member in the team.
Team A.R.S.S. also finished on 26 points (Catching 6, Throwing 3, Bowling 1, Batting 16). ARS finished as the third best team, as they scored less points in bowling compared to Pashan Friends.
Kaushik Marathe, CEO, Cottonking gave away the prizes. ‘Four’ won the Champion of the Day cash prize of Rs 10,000, and Shirts for each member of the team and also were declared as the Champion of Champions of the MPL Super Skills Contest bagging a cash prize of Rs. 25,000, therby making their prize tally to a whopping amount of Rs. 35,000 while the team members of the Pashan Friends and A.R.S. got Shirts.
The Champion of Champions award would be presented to the team ‘Four’ during the MPL final presentation.
A total of 563 teams participated in the MPL Super Skills.
Corporate add their touch; Mulshi Warriors top the day with record!
Pune, September 17, 2011 : After a couple of days of good response, the MPL Super Skills reached another level altogether on Saturday, with a massive 185 registrations (teams) in a single day.
The MPL Super Skills, an event held by the organisers of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) - Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group - had seen 102 registrations on Friday, and the number got much bigger on Saturday, with some of Friday’s participants turning up again, as well as some corporate participation.
Mulshi Warriors won the day’s honours with 19 points. As champions of the day, they won a cash prize of Rs 10,000 in addition to a stunning trophy and medals. Mulshi Warriors also equalled the highest score of the tournament so far, a mark that was set by Kasba Rockers on Day One of this event being held at the BMCC ground. Mulshi Warriors scored 10 points in batting, which is the highest in the event so far, alongwith three each in throwing and catching and bowling. Their batting points included hitting the board of six points, which is placed at fine-leg, and is quite difficult to hit.
The team Warriors finished as the second best of the day, just one point behind Mulshi Warriors. Highlight of their performance was scoring six out of six points in catching. Mulshi 11 Cricket Club also finished with 18 points. With both Warriors and Mulshi 11 Cricket Club scoring one point each in the bowling, both finished as the joint second best team of the day. Members of both teams got T-shirts.
The event is on for one more day, on Sunday, and the registrations would be taken at the venue, BMCC ground at 9 am.
The MPL Super Skills, an event held by the organisers of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) - Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group - had seen 102 registrations on Friday, and the number got much bigger on Saturday, with some of Friday’s participants turning up again, as well as some corporate participation.
Mulshi Warriors won the day’s honours with 19 points. As champions of the day, they won a cash prize of Rs 10,000 in addition to a stunning trophy and medals. Mulshi Warriors also equalled the highest score of the tournament so far, a mark that was set by Kasba Rockers on Day One of this event being held at the BMCC ground. Mulshi Warriors scored 10 points in batting, which is the highest in the event so far, alongwith three each in throwing and catching and bowling. Their batting points included hitting the board of six points, which is placed at fine-leg, and is quite difficult to hit.
The team Warriors finished as the second best of the day, just one point behind Mulshi Warriors. Highlight of their performance was scoring six out of six points in catching. Mulshi 11 Cricket Club also finished with 18 points. With both Warriors and Mulshi 11 Cricket Club scoring one point each in the bowling, both finished as the joint second best team of the day. Members of both teams got T-shirts.
The event is on for one more day, on Sunday, and the registrations would be taken at the venue, BMCC ground at 9 am.
Fantastic Four top Day 2
Pune, September 16, 2011: The MPL Super Skills contest got an even bigger response on Day Two with as many as 102 registrations (teams), including two teams comprising all girls.
The MPL Super Skills is a event staged by the organisers of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) - the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group, for cricket enthusiasts in and around the city of Pune.
Day Two of this event being held at BMCC ground proved to be extremely competitive, with two teams, Fantastic Four and Pashan Friends, being tied at 18 points for the top spot. Fantastic Four, with the higher number of bowling points scored (4 to 0) finished as the champions of the day, earning themselves a cash award of Rs 10,000, along with T-shirts, sponsored by Sindhudurg Sailors. One of the major achievement for Fantastic Four was hitting the board of six, which earns the team six points, placed at fine-leg while batting.
The participation of girls was the highlight of the day, with Dampster-1 and Dampster-2 comprising all girls. While Dampster-1 scored 8 points in four skills, that is batting bowling, throwing and catching; Dampster-2 finished with four points. A team having girl participants gets three extra points.
There were also four teams who had one female member in their team of four.
There were a number of teams who had participated on Wednesday, who turned up again today and had another go at it.
Amar Priya Cricket Club with 17 points finished as the third best team of the day.
The members of the second and third best team got T-shirts for their effort.
The event would be on for two more days (Saturday and Sunday) with registrations being taken at 9 am on each day.
The MPL Super Skills is a event staged by the organisers of the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) - the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group, for cricket enthusiasts in and around the city of Pune.
Day Two of this event being held at BMCC ground proved to be extremely competitive, with two teams, Fantastic Four and Pashan Friends, being tied at 18 points for the top spot. Fantastic Four, with the higher number of bowling points scored (4 to 0) finished as the champions of the day, earning themselves a cash award of Rs 10,000, along with T-shirts, sponsored by Sindhudurg Sailors. One of the major achievement for Fantastic Four was hitting the board of six, which earns the team six points, placed at fine-leg while batting.
The participation of girls was the highlight of the day, with Dampster-1 and Dampster-2 comprising all girls. While Dampster-1 scored 8 points in four skills, that is batting bowling, throwing and catching; Dampster-2 finished with four points. A team having girl participants gets three extra points.
There were also four teams who had one female member in their team of four.
There were a number of teams who had participated on Wednesday, who turned up again today and had another go at it.
Amar Priya Cricket Club with 17 points finished as the third best team of the day.
The members of the second and third best team got T-shirts for their effort.
The event would be on for two more days (Saturday and Sunday) with registrations being taken at 9 am on each day.
Excitement and Enthusiasm rules the day in MPL Super Skills
The 4 day cricket carnival receives an overwhelming on the inaugural day.
Pune, 15 September, 2011:The MPL Super Skills, an unique contest organised by the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) organisers -- Maharashtra Cricket Association and Sakal Media Group-- received an overwhelming response on the first day, with as many as 78 registrations (teams).
Kasba Rockers became the "Champion of the Day" with 19 points at the end of Day One, of this four-day contest, being held at the BMCC ground.
In this contest specially designed for cricket enthusiasts in and around the city, four vital aspects of the game-- batting, bowling, catching and throwing-- are tested. A four-member team can participate, with each member trying out his skills in one of the four aspects. In batting, player gets to face six deliveries from a bowling machine, and boards of 1 to 6 are placed on the ground. Whenever ball hits the board, batsman gets that many points, while a miss means zero points.
In bowling, player gets to bowl six balls, with every hit on the stumps earning him one point.
Similarly in catching, a player gets six catches from a machine, with every catch earning him a point. Throwing is a bit similar to bowling, where in every hit counts for one point, with a player getting six opportunities.
The event inauguration was attended by Mr. Vikas Kakatkar, Vice President, DES, Sudhir Kulkarni, CEO, Sindhudurg Sailors, Smt. L Mali, Vice Principal, BMCC (Junior College) and Mrs. Kajal Malik, on Wednesday morning.
There was a big enthusiasm among the participants since the morning, and a mix of professionals and amateurs took part in the contest on the opening day. Kasba Rockers did the basics right, scoring nine out of possible 12 points in the fielding section (six in catching, three in throwing). Another three in the bowling, and eight in the batting took their tally to 19, which earned them the coveted title of "Champion of the Day". As the champions of the day, Kasba Rockers won a cash award of Rs 10,000 and Shirt for each member of the team, being sponsored by Sindhudurg Sailors.
Four Tigers, with 15 points (Catching 4, Throwing 3, Bowling 3, Batting 7) finished as the second best team on Wednesday while Shivsai, with 15 points, (Catching 5, Throwing 1, Bowling 1, Batting 8) finished as the third best of the day. The second and third best teams for the day got Shirts too. The event is on for three more days, with registrations being taken at 9 am every day at the venue.
MPL Super Skills Top three scores details:
Rank: 1st
Team Name: Kasba Rockers
Prize: Trophy + Medals + prize Worth 10,000 + Shirts from Sindhudurg Sailors
Rank: 2nd
Team Name: Four Tigers
Prize: Shirts from Sindhudurg Sailors
Rank: 3rd
Team Name: Shivsai
Prize: Shirts from Sindhudurg Sailors
Pune, 15 September, 2011:The MPL Super Skills, an unique contest organised by the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) organisers -- Maharashtra Cricket Association and Sakal Media Group-- received an overwhelming response on the first day, with as many as 78 registrations (teams).
Kasba Rockers became the "Champion of the Day" with 19 points at the end of Day One, of this four-day contest, being held at the BMCC ground.
In this contest specially designed for cricket enthusiasts in and around the city, four vital aspects of the game-- batting, bowling, catching and throwing-- are tested. A four-member team can participate, with each member trying out his skills in one of the four aspects. In batting, player gets to face six deliveries from a bowling machine, and boards of 1 to 6 are placed on the ground. Whenever ball hits the board, batsman gets that many points, while a miss means zero points.
In bowling, player gets to bowl six balls, with every hit on the stumps earning him one point.
Similarly in catching, a player gets six catches from a machine, with every catch earning him a point. Throwing is a bit similar to bowling, where in every hit counts for one point, with a player getting six opportunities.
The event inauguration was attended by Mr. Vikas Kakatkar, Vice President, DES, Sudhir Kulkarni, CEO, Sindhudurg Sailors, Smt. L Mali, Vice Principal, BMCC (Junior College) and Mrs. Kajal Malik, on Wednesday morning.
There was a big enthusiasm among the participants since the morning, and a mix of professionals and amateurs took part in the contest on the opening day. Kasba Rockers did the basics right, scoring nine out of possible 12 points in the fielding section (six in catching, three in throwing). Another three in the bowling, and eight in the batting took their tally to 19, which earned them the coveted title of "Champion of the Day". As the champions of the day, Kasba Rockers won a cash award of Rs 10,000 and Shirt for each member of the team, being sponsored by Sindhudurg Sailors.
Four Tigers, with 15 points (Catching 4, Throwing 3, Bowling 3, Batting 7) finished as the second best team on Wednesday while Shivsai, with 15 points, (Catching 5, Throwing 1, Bowling 1, Batting 8) finished as the third best of the day. The second and third best teams for the day got Shirts too. The event is on for three more days, with registrations being taken at 9 am every day at the venue.
Rank: 1st
Team Name: Kasba Rockers
Prize: Trophy + Medals + prize Worth 10,000 + Shirts from Sindhudurg Sailors
Member Name |
Skill |
Attempt Details |
Points |
Sohan Shedge |
Catching |
1,1,1,1,1,1 |
6 |
Abhimanyu Gangaji |
Throwing |
0,0,1,1,0,0 |
2 |
Sagar Patil |
Bowling |
0,0,0,1,1,1 |
3 |
Abhishek Zanwar |
Batting |
0,4,0,0,0,4 |
8 |
Total Team Score |
19 |
||
Rank: 2nd
Team Name: Four Tigers
Prize: Shirts from Sindhudurg Sailors
Member Name |
Skill |
Attempt Details |
Points |
Akash Kamble |
Catching |
0,1,1,0,1,1 |
4 |
Uttam Kumbhar |
Throwing |
0,1,1,0,0,1 |
3 |
Nitin Kumbhar |
Bowling |
0,0,0,1,1,1 |
3 |
Santosh Davkhure |
Batting |
0,0,1,0,6,0 |
7 |
Total Team Score |
17 |
||
Rank: 3rd
Team Name: Shivsai
Prize: Shirts from Sindhudurg Sailors
Member Name |
Skill |
Attempt Details |
Points |
Amol Gosavi |
Catching |
1,0,1,1,1,1 |
5 |
Hemant Warke |
Throwing |
0,0,1,0,0,0 |
1 |
Vikram Chavan |
Bowling |
1,0,0,0,0,0 |
1 |
Vilas Dhindale |
Batting |
0,0,0,0,4,4 |
8 |
Total Team Score |
15 |
||
‘We are concentrating more on fitness levels’ Devgiri Emperors - Hemant Athalaye
After a disappointing first season, Devgiri Emperors showed a much improved performance in the MPL-II, missing out on a semi-final spot by a whisker. Here is their coach Hemant Athalye speaking about the team’s performance last year, their preparation for the MPL-III and the team’s strengths.
Q: When, where and how have you planned your practice sessions?
We haven’t started regular net practice yet, but we intend it to start from Monday (12 September) onwards probably on Varroc-Vengsarkar Academy ground, Thergaon or whichever ground is available. Meanwhile, we have concluded with the fitness camp, which began two months back by our physical trainer Tejas Matapurkar at the Deccan Gymkhana gymnasium.
Q: Are practice matches on your agenda before the tournament?
We are going to arrange as many practice matches as possible before the tournament begins, but it all depends on the rain.
Q: Any special sessions planned to boost the morale of the team?
Not yet and that is because 5-6 players from our team were busy with the Maharashtra camp. Another 9-10 players are out of Pune, hence haven’t got opportunity to bring the whole team together as of now. But once we have the whole unit together from Monday (12 September) we intend to plan some sessions.
Q: What according to you are your team strengths this year?
We have a formidable batting line up this year with the likes of Chetan Suryavanshi, Prayag Bhati, Kunal Marathe, Kartik Bhatia and yes we have Chetan Thorat, Rohan Matale and Sajin Sureshnath who have strengthen our bowling dept along with other bowlers.
Q: Have the strengths and weaknesses observed from last year addressed?
Firstly, let me sum up last year. We performed well except for one match, which we should have won, but lost and that cost a place in the knock out stages. As we all know the shorter version requires excellent fitness levels, which we lacked last year, hence this year we are concentrating more on the fitness levels of the players, because we believe that if you have good fitness it naturally reflects in your fielding. It helps on all fronts particularly running between the wickets, which is crucial in this format. In keeping the fitness levels high one gets a added 20% advantage, which contributes in winning.
Q: How satisfied are with the team preparation for MPL 3?
Actually, it is too early to comment as we have yet not got together as a unit or even had a serious practice session. Our fitness camp, which concluded recently, went off very well in terms of individual assessment. Practice matches in due course will help us work on building our match temperament for the tournament ahead. Also Chetan recently had a very good run in the tournaments he figured in Singapore, hence he also looks in fine knick and we hope he continues with the same form in MPL too.
Q: On missing Mithun Kirad from the bowling attack…
This year we have Sajin Sureshnath, Chetan Thorat and Rohan Matale, hence have a lot of variety and options in our hands.
Q: What would be the role of Payag Bhati when the batting line up boasts of Chetan Suryavanshi, Kunal Marathe, Sumit Chavan and Kartik Bhatia?
Prayag Bhati is a hard hitter hence we expect he lives up to the expectation. His presence will give us the luxury of having two hard-hitting batsmen in our line-up. Moreover, he is young, has fresh legs – qualities every team looks forward to have in their team. Prayag is natural hitter and we will let him play his natural game, also he is an excellent fielder so that is major advantage for our side.
After a disappointing first season, Devgiri Emperors showed a much improved performance in the MPL-II, missing out on a semi-final spot by a whisker. Here is their coach Hemant Athalye speaking about the team’s performance last year, their preparation for the MPL-III and the team’s strengths.Q: When, where and how have you planned your practice sessions?
We haven’t started regular net practice yet, but we intend it to start from Monday (12 September) onwards probably on Varroc-Vengsarkar Academy ground, Thergaon or whichever ground is available. Meanwhile, we have concluded with the fitness camp, which began two months back by our physical trainer Tejas Matapurkar at the Deccan Gymkhana gymnasium.
Q: Are practice matches on your agenda before the tournament?
We are going to arrange as many practice matches as possible before the tournament begins, but it all depends on the rain.
Q: Any special sessions planned to boost the morale of the team?
Not yet and that is because 5-6 players from our team were busy with the Maharashtra camp. Another 9-10 players are out of Pune, hence haven’t got opportunity to bring the whole team together as of now. But once we have the whole unit together from Monday (12 September) we intend to plan some sessions.
Q: What according to you are your team strengths this year?
We have a formidable batting line up this year with the likes of Chetan Suryavanshi, Prayag Bhati, Kunal Marathe, Kartik Bhatia and yes we have Chetan Thorat, Rohan Matale and Sajin Sureshnath who have strengthen our bowling dept along with other bowlers.
Q: Have the strengths and weaknesses observed from last year addressed?
Firstly, let me sum up last year. We performed well except for one match, which we should have won, but lost and that cost a place in the knock out stages. As we all know the shorter version requires excellent fitness levels, which we lacked last year, hence this year we are concentrating more on the fitness levels of the players, because we believe that if you have good fitness it naturally reflects in your fielding. It helps on all fronts particularly running between the wickets, which is crucial in this format. In keeping the fitness levels high one gets a added 20% advantage, which contributes in winning.
Q: How satisfied are with the team preparation for MPL 3?
Actually, it is too early to comment as we have yet not got together as a unit or even had a serious practice session. Our fitness camp, which concluded recently, went off very well in terms of individual assessment. Practice matches in due course will help us work on building our match temperament for the tournament ahead. Also Chetan recently had a very good run in the tournaments he figured in Singapore, hence he also looks in fine knick and we hope he continues with the same form in MPL too.
Q: On missing Mithun Kirad from the bowling attack…
This year we have Sajin Sureshnath, Chetan Thorat and Rohan Matale, hence have a lot of variety and options in our hands.
Q: What would be the role of Payag Bhati when the batting line up boasts of Chetan Suryavanshi, Kunal Marathe, Sumit Chavan and Kartik Bhatia?
Prayag Bhati is a hard hitter hence we expect he lives up to the expectation. His presence will give us the luxury of having two hard-hitting batsmen in our line-up. Moreover, he is young, has fresh legs – qualities every team looks forward to have in their team. Prayag is natural hitter and we will let him play his natural game, also he is an excellent fielder so that is major advantage for our side.
‘We missed Kedar’s presence last year’ Torna Tigers Team Manager- Nitin Hardikar
After a disastrous campaign in the MPL-II, Torna Tigers are keen on proving their class and ability going into MPL-III. Team’s manager Nitin Hardikar talks about what went wrong last season, how the team is preparing for the MPL-III and what the team’s strengths are.
Q: Can you spread light on how you plan your practice sessions?
We begin on Monday. So far, 5-6 players were engaged in the Maharashtra camp and not been with us. The rest of the team has been going for excursions to Sinhagad for fitness. The basic aim behind this exercise is to keep the body fit. Likewise, players visit Vetal Tekdi to work on customized individual fitness programs. A two-session practice at PYC is on the anvil beginning Monday.
Q: Are practice matches part of your plan before the tournament? To date, no plan is made. Several players have played in some T20 tournaments in the month of May, those tournaments proved fruitful in determining the improvement areas of the players.
Q: Any special sessions in the pipe line to boost the morale of the team? No special sessions as yet, but as mentioned earlier small excursions to Sinhagad are undertaken which automatically helps in team bonding. The focus will be on small targets wherein each other try to push each other to the limits and in turn support each other.
Q: What according to you are your team strengths this year?
This year with the inclusion of Ajinkya Joshi, Karan Nande, Pankaj Kalyankar (who is a hard hitter), Amit Kadam and the existing squad the unit has got youth and experience a perfect balanced unit. We have a decent batting line up with an equally good bowling attack. Batting-wise, Kedar will be spearheading the line up with Ajinkya, Ranjit Chavan, Pankaj, Manoj Pardeshi & Virag Awate. On the bowling front Kiran is in fine nick and will be supported well by Ajinkya Joshi and Parikshit Jadhav.
Q: Can you spread light on the strengths and weaknesses observed last year?
Last year Kedar was unavailable after three and his absence turned out to be a big blow. Overall, we had very close finishes last year, after losing some matches on the trot, which led to a low morale. This year we will try to take it one match at a time and build individuals positives rather than point out the negatives.
Q: How satisfied are you with the team preparation for MPL-3?
So far, so good and that is because we have planned the season in advance and are following plans strictly. The boys are very excited and looking forward for a good MPL outing. The team has gelled very well and eager to give their best shot.
Q: Will Coach Geoff Lawson will be back again…
Lawson will not be back this year. Instead, we have Indrajeet Kamtekar as our coach and Mihir Ternikar as our physio.
Q: Can you spread light on how you plan your practice sessions?
We begin on Monday. So far, 5-6 players were engaged in the Maharashtra camp and not been with us. The rest of the team has been going for excursions to Sinhagad for fitness. The basic aim behind this exercise is to keep the body fit. Likewise, players visit Vetal Tekdi to work on customized individual fitness programs. A two-session practice at PYC is on the anvil beginning Monday.
Q: Are practice matches part of your plan before the tournament? To date, no plan is made. Several players have played in some T20 tournaments in the month of May, those tournaments proved fruitful in determining the improvement areas of the players.
Q: Any special sessions in the pipe line to boost the morale of the team? No special sessions as yet, but as mentioned earlier small excursions to Sinhagad are undertaken which automatically helps in team bonding. The focus will be on small targets wherein each other try to push each other to the limits and in turn support each other.
Q: What according to you are your team strengths this year?
This year with the inclusion of Ajinkya Joshi, Karan Nande, Pankaj Kalyankar (who is a hard hitter), Amit Kadam and the existing squad the unit has got youth and experience a perfect balanced unit. We have a decent batting line up with an equally good bowling attack. Batting-wise, Kedar will be spearheading the line up with Ajinkya, Ranjit Chavan, Pankaj, Manoj Pardeshi & Virag Awate. On the bowling front Kiran is in fine nick and will be supported well by Ajinkya Joshi and Parikshit Jadhav.
Q: Can you spread light on the strengths and weaknesses observed last year?
Last year Kedar was unavailable after three and his absence turned out to be a big blow. Overall, we had very close finishes last year, after losing some matches on the trot, which led to a low morale. This year we will try to take it one match at a time and build individuals positives rather than point out the negatives.
Q: How satisfied are you with the team preparation for MPL-3?
So far, so good and that is because we have planned the season in advance and are following plans strictly. The boys are very excited and looking forward for a good MPL outing. The team has gelled very well and eager to give their best shot.
Q: Will Coach Geoff Lawson will be back again…
Lawson will not be back this year. Instead, we have Indrajeet Kamtekar as our coach and Mihir Ternikar as our physio.
MPL Super Skills Camp
PUNE: 12 September, 2011: While teams ready themselves for the Maharashtra
Premier League (MPL) there's ample reason for every cricket enthusiast of
the city to be part of the cricket's biggest extravaganza in the State.
For the first time in MPL's two-year history, the organisers, Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group have formulated a unique contest - MPL Super Skills, wherein anybody and everybody can get together to test themselves in four vital aspects of the game.
MPL Super Skills is a team-based competition, in which a team of four (4) can participate, with all members being above 15 years. The competition would be held at the BMCC ground on between September 15 to 18.
The competition would test the cricket skills of the participants, and it would include skills like batting, bowling, catching and throwing. Each member of the team can take part in one of the four skills mentioned above, with each activity being limited to one over (six balls).
Each member would be given points for his activity, with the team's cumulative points being the decisive factor in the end.
Team's that include female participants shall be given added advantage.
And there are loads of prizes to be won. The team with the highest score of each day would be awarded with cash prize, and would feature in Sakal, State's biggest vernacular, as the *"MPL Super Skills Champion of the Day"*. The mega winner would be selected from the top teams of each day and would be crowned as the *"MPL Super Skills Champion of Champions"* along with the mega cash prize.
Prizes worth Rs 75,000 are up for the grab for the teams participating in the Super Skills.
The registration would be open at 9 am on each day of the competition, with the event starting at 10 am, and going on till 6 pm.
There will be limitations on the maximum number of entries, and registration would be allowed as first come first serve basis.
This would be a great opportunity for young cricketers in and around the city, as it would help them develop their cricket skills, as well as build a strong team spirit between them.
For the first time in MPL's two-year history, the organisers, Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group have formulated a unique contest - MPL Super Skills, wherein anybody and everybody can get together to test themselves in four vital aspects of the game.
MPL Super Skills is a team-based competition, in which a team of four (4) can participate, with all members being above 15 years. The competition would be held at the BMCC ground on between September 15 to 18.
The competition would test the cricket skills of the participants, and it would include skills like batting, bowling, catching and throwing. Each member of the team can take part in one of the four skills mentioned above, with each activity being limited to one over (six balls).
Each member would be given points for his activity, with the team's cumulative points being the decisive factor in the end.
Team's that include female participants shall be given added advantage.
And there are loads of prizes to be won. The team with the highest score of each day would be awarded with cash prize, and would feature in Sakal, State's biggest vernacular, as the *"MPL Super Skills Champion of the Day"*. The mega winner would be selected from the top teams of each day and would be crowned as the *"MPL Super Skills Champion of Champions"* along with the mega cash prize.
Prizes worth Rs 75,000 are up for the grab for the teams participating in the Super Skills.
The registration would be open at 9 am on each day of the competition, with the event starting at 10 am, and going on till 6 pm.
There will be limitations on the maximum number of entries, and registration would be allowed as first come first serve basis.
This would be a great opportunity for young cricketers in and around the city, as it would help them develop their cricket skills, as well as build a strong team spirit between them.
Maharashtra’s biggest festivity
This year, the Maharashtra Premier league stars, who hail from all over the state, will assemble themselves to represent their teams and visit historic and traditionally rich Ganesh mandals situated in eight districts of the State.
The first of these visits by teams of three players each (nominated by the team) will have Devgiri Emperors travel to Aurangabad on September 3 and perform the Maha-Arati.
“The intention is to bring together districts, which form an integral part of contributing to the success of the league. As all know a host of players’ in this IPL-modeled league hail from district and it was only just to have them visit districts to build a fan base of their own and promote the team,” said Indranil Datta, Senior Vice President Marketing- Sakal Media Group
The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), first-ever State based T20 league in India, jointly organized by the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group, is all set to get underway on September 28.
The MPL has been designed to give an opportunity to cricketers from various districts of Maharashtra to display their talent and hence, it’s ideal that stars of the MPL go to various districts and take the already popular league to different parts of the State in this festive season.
MPL heroes will also visit well known and historically traditional mandals in PCMC, Nashik, Ratnagiri, Kolhapur, Navi Mumbai, Satara, Jalgaon, which is sure to take the league’s popularity to an even higher level.
“It is necessary to reach out to cricket fans in various districts that yearn to see innovation in a sport that is a religion in the country. We feel, this could bring in even bigger crowds, especially people from outside Pune, for the MPL matches this season,” Maharashtra Cricket Association president Ajay Shirke said.
As part of MPL’s celebration of Ganesh Festival, the eight franchisees are likely to join one of the biggest and most popular Ganesh mandals in the city on the last day of the celebration, the day when every devotee bids the Lord goodbye.
Meanwhile, an exclusive MPL float will parade along with the chosen mandal during the immersion process.
Ganeshotsav is here, and what better occasion to kick start the countdown to the state’s biggest sporting event, the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL).
While T20 fans and party wait for yet another year of slam-bang on-field action during the MPL-3 scheduled later this month the organizers Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) and Sakaal Media Group have jointly decided to be part of the celebrations and seek blessings of Lord Ganesh in their own special way.This year, the Maharashtra Premier league stars, who hail from all over the state, will assemble themselves to represent their teams and visit historic and traditionally rich Ganesh mandals situated in eight districts of the State.
The first of these visits by teams of three players each (nominated by the team) will have Devgiri Emperors travel to Aurangabad on September 3 and perform the Maha-Arati.
“The intention is to bring together districts, which form an integral part of contributing to the success of the league. As all know a host of players’ in this IPL-modeled league hail from district and it was only just to have them visit districts to build a fan base of their own and promote the team,” said Indranil Datta, Senior Vice President Marketing- Sakal Media Group
The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), first-ever State based T20 league in India, jointly organized by the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group, is all set to get underway on September 28.
The MPL has been designed to give an opportunity to cricketers from various districts of Maharashtra to display their talent and hence, it’s ideal that stars of the MPL go to various districts and take the already popular league to different parts of the State in this festive season.
MPL heroes will also visit well known and historically traditional mandals in PCMC, Nashik, Ratnagiri, Kolhapur, Navi Mumbai, Satara, Jalgaon, which is sure to take the league’s popularity to an even higher level.
“It is necessary to reach out to cricket fans in various districts that yearn to see innovation in a sport that is a religion in the country. We feel, this could bring in even bigger crowds, especially people from outside Pune, for the MPL matches this season,” Maharashtra Cricket Association president Ajay Shirke said.
As part of MPL’s celebration of Ganesh Festival, the eight franchisees are likely to join one of the biggest and most popular Ganesh mandals in the city on the last day of the celebration, the day when every devotee bids the Lord goodbye.
Meanwhile, an exclusive MPL float will parade along with the chosen mandal during the immersion process.
MPL-III is back to the city
The third edition of the India’s first-official state premier leagueis all set to unfold from September 28
PUNE: 19 September, 2011: The wait is over, and the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), a joint venture of the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group is all set to enter its third edition in a little over a month’s time.
After two fabulous seasons of Twenty20 cricket that drew fantastic crowds, MPL-III is back bigger, better and will importantly be played in Pune’s very own backyard unlike last year when some matches were played at the DY Patil ground, Navi Mumbai.
The third edition –MPL–III of this cricket extravaganza will kick off on 28th September, 2011 and will run non-stop for ten days and will be played at three venues - The Deccan Gymkhana, Poona Club and PYC Hindu Gymkhana grounds.The final is set for October 8.
Dubbed as India's ‘first Official state Premier Cricket League', the tournament will have the now familiar franchises; Devgiri Emperors, Sinhagad Supremos, Sindhudurg Sailors, Torna Tigers, Panhala Panthers, Raigad Royals, Pratapgad Warriors and Shivneri Lions battle and serve a treat to its viewers.
The interest has been such that even before MPL-I took to the pitch in the inaugural edition in 2009, the opening ceremony drew an impressive crowd of over 20,000.
Like the previous editions, MPL-III will be played on a league cum knock out basis. In the league phase all teams will play each other once in a bid to claim the top four positions to enter the semifinal stage. In all 31 matches will be played during the period.
Maharashtra Cricket Association President Ajay Shirke, explained, “We are proud to bring in the third edition of the MPL. We started this league two years back with a vision of providing a platform to talented cricketers around the State. We have already got great results in two seasons with a number of MPL players earning lucrative contracts with IPL teams, which goes on to show that the talented stand to gain.”
Like the second season of the MPL that saw as many as 17 matches being telecasted live on national network (NEO Cricket), the third season will also be played using Kookabura Balls. L.S Krishnan, Business Head, Sakal Media Group, said, “MPL is a great concept and a platform for new talent to demonstrate their prowess. We are really excited about this project and hope to take MPL bigger year after year.”
The auction for the third edition of MPL was held in November, with all-rounder Deepak Shilamkar becoming the most expensive player at Rs 2,40,000, bought by Panhala Panthers. Apart from Shilamkar, Ameya Shrikhande, Ajinkya Joshi and Sajin Sureshnath were the other stars to earn a price of over Rs 2 lakhs, another clear indication of how fast the league is growing.
Uday Jadhav, Director, Corporate Development , Sakal Media Group, observed, “As a Media Group, we are very happy to be associated with the MPL, which is basically designed to improve the quality of cricket across the State of Maharashtra, and which provides a solid platform to a huge number of cricketers all over the State.”
Mr. Ajay Shirke, President, MCA, Mr. L.S.Krishnan, Business Head, Sakal Media Group and Mr. Riaz Bagwan, Tournament Manager, MPL during the MPL 3 announcement Press Conference
PUNE: 19 September, 2011: The wait is over, and the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL), a joint venture of the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Sakal Media Group is all set to enter its third edition in a little over a month’s time.
After two fabulous seasons of Twenty20 cricket that drew fantastic crowds, MPL-III is back bigger, better and will importantly be played in Pune’s very own backyard unlike last year when some matches were played at the DY Patil ground, Navi Mumbai.
The third edition –MPL–III of this cricket extravaganza will kick off on 28th September, 2011 and will run non-stop for ten days and will be played at three venues - The Deccan Gymkhana, Poona Club and PYC Hindu Gymkhana grounds.The final is set for October 8.
Dubbed as India's ‘first Official state Premier Cricket League', the tournament will have the now familiar franchises; Devgiri Emperors, Sinhagad Supremos, Sindhudurg Sailors, Torna Tigers, Panhala Panthers, Raigad Royals, Pratapgad Warriors and Shivneri Lions battle and serve a treat to its viewers.
The interest has been such that even before MPL-I took to the pitch in the inaugural edition in 2009, the opening ceremony drew an impressive crowd of over 20,000.
Like the previous editions, MPL-III will be played on a league cum knock out basis. In the league phase all teams will play each other once in a bid to claim the top four positions to enter the semifinal stage. In all 31 matches will be played during the period.
Maharashtra Cricket Association President Ajay Shirke, explained, “We are proud to bring in the third edition of the MPL. We started this league two years back with a vision of providing a platform to talented cricketers around the State. We have already got great results in two seasons with a number of MPL players earning lucrative contracts with IPL teams, which goes on to show that the talented stand to gain.”
Like the second season of the MPL that saw as many as 17 matches being telecasted live on national network (NEO Cricket), the third season will also be played using Kookabura Balls. L.S Krishnan, Business Head, Sakal Media Group, said, “MPL is a great concept and a platform for new talent to demonstrate their prowess. We are really excited about this project and hope to take MPL bigger year after year.”
The auction for the third edition of MPL was held in November, with all-rounder Deepak Shilamkar becoming the most expensive player at Rs 2,40,000, bought by Panhala Panthers. Apart from Shilamkar, Ameya Shrikhande, Ajinkya Joshi and Sajin Sureshnath were the other stars to earn a price of over Rs 2 lakhs, another clear indication of how fast the league is growing.
Uday Jadhav, Director, Corporate Development , Sakal Media Group, observed, “As a Media Group, we are very happy to be associated with the MPL, which is basically designed to improve the quality of cricket across the State of Maharashtra, and which provides a solid platform to a huge number of cricketers all over the State.”
Mr. Ajay Shirke, President, MCA, Mr. L.S.Krishnan, Business Head, Sakal Media Group and Mr. Riaz Bagwan, Tournament Manager, MPL during the MPL 3 announcement Press Conference
