By Our Reporter
Shillong, Dec 21: In a dominating performance, Manipur secured a comprehensive victory over Meghalaya in their U-16 boys’ Vijay Merchant Trophy match held in Cuttack on Friday.
Manipur, having maintained their status as the standout team in the plate group throughout the season, clinched four wins out of five matches, the other being a draw.
The turn of events saw Manipur at 233/9 at stumps yesterday, holding a substantial lead of 154 runs after restricting Meghalaya to a mere 79 in their first innings.
On Friday, the last wicket was claimed by Paisal Ali (1/34) without any addition to the score, as Meghalaya struggled in their second innings, eventually being dismissed for just 81. This decisive victory solidified Manipur’s position as a dominant force in the competition.Although Meghalaya currently holds the second spot in the points table, the final position is pending the outcome of the Nagaland-Mizoram match.
Nonetheless, Meghalaya’s performance has been commendable, bouncing back after an initial defeat to Sikkim. Subsequent draws with Nagaland were followed by victories against Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.
A noteworthy aspect of Manipur’s success has been their impressive bowling performance.
Apandanka Marak and Gaurav Jyoti Thakuria have emerged as key contributors, ranking among the top 10 in terms of wickets.
Apandanka stands at the third position nationwide with an impressive tally of 34 wickets, while Gaurav secures the ninth spot with 28 wickets. Both bowlers showcased their skill with three five-wicket hauls each, highlighting their crucial role in Manipur’s triumph. The team’s exceptional bowling prowess would have likely yielded more scalps had Manipur been required to bat again.
Manipur’s resounding victory over Meghalaya in the U-16 boys’ Vijay Merchant Trophy not only reaffirms their dominance in the plate group but also underscores the team’s resilience and skill. With a stellar track record of four wins and a draw this season, Manipur has displayed exceptional prowess, particularly in their bowling department. Apandanka Marak and Gaurav Jyoti Thakuria’s remarkable performances have been instrumental in securing crucial wickets, propelling Manipur to the forefront of the competition. As the season progresses, Manipur’s formidable presence makes them a team to watch, and their journey in the Vijay Merchant Trophy stands as a testament to their determination and cricketing prowess.
