On one of the most unpredictable pitches you’ll ever see — where the same length could either fly over your head or roll at ankle height — both teams still produced an incredible 444 runs, turning a horrible surface into a thrilling contest. Batting first, Poplars CC 1st XI posted 222/9, thanks to a classy 50 (retired)* from Nihal Suvarna, a strong comeback innings from Ajay Gopu (28) and Harikumar Mindi (26) returning from injury, and a powerful late burst from Mahesh Sharma, who smashed 3 sixes and no fours, clearing the ropes with pure timing. Vidyasagar Adiyala (28) added to the entertainment by hitting one straight onto the main road — luckily no cars were passing at the time.
The match also marked the debut of Sanjay and Sreelekshmi, both of whom impressed immediately. Ajay and Sanjay bowled an amazing first spell, keeping Travellers under pressure early before a few runs leaked in the middle overs. Travellers CC fought back brilliantly through Irfan Mehmood (53 retired) and Vinay (36), showing real class on a pitch that offered nothing consistent.
The game came down to pure nerves: Travellers needed 16 runs from the last 18 balls, and then just 4 runs in the final over. But Naresh Monala held his nerve, delivering a superb last over under pressure to restrict the scoring and secure a dramatic tie.