By Our Reporter
Shillong, March 23: The 5th District League T20 Cricket Tournament 2026, organised by the East Khasi Hills Cricket Association, delivered another day of competitive cricket as Friends United CC and Laitjem CC registered convincing victories in their respective fixtures.
In Match No. 43, Friends United CC put up a strong all-round performance to defeat Rangshken ACC by 37 runs. Asked to bat first after losing the toss, Friends United posted a competitive 165 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. Nathaniel N Lynrah led the charge with a fluent 49 off just 30 deliveries, anchoring the innings with intent and composure. For Rangshken ACC, Hamostar was the standout bowler, returning impressive figures of 3 for 15 in his three overs.Chasing 166, Rangshken ACC struggled to keep pace with the required rate and eventually finished on 128 for 6 in 20 overs. Banshailang top-scored with a brisk 30 off 19 balls, but lacked support from the rest of the batting lineup. Larikupar Nongkynrih delivered a disciplined spell for Friends United, claiming 2 for 18 in his four overs to help seal the result. Wansiewsor Lyndem was adjudged Player of the Match for his impactful contribution.
In Match No. 44, Laitjem CC secured a four-wicket win over Cricket Lovers in a closely fought contest. Opting to bat first, Cricket Lovers were bowled out for 113 in 18 overs, with Pyndap L Nonglait emerging as the top scorer with 29 off 18 balls. Mebanshan Kharsati starred with the ball for Laitjem CC, picking up 3 for 17 in his four-over spell.
In response, Laitjem CC chased down the target in 17.5 overs, finishing at 116 for 7. Marken B Kharkongor played a match-winning knock, scoring a well-crafted 58 off 38 balls under pressure. Despite a fighting effort from Namewanki Pakyntein, who claimed 3 for 23 in three overs, Cricket Lovers could not prevent Laitjem from crossing the line. Kharkongor was deservedly named Player of the Match for his decisive innings
