Alpine SC in ‘A’ Division final for fourth straight time

SAMIR NUGO

Ashish claims second fifer, Afzal hits 47 in 63-run win against CAT

MINING, March 21:AshishThapa’ssecond consecutive fifer dismantled Cricket Association of Tathangchen as Alpine Sporting Club won a by a margin of 63 runs and entered the final of SICA ‘A’ Division cricket tournament for fourth year running. 

Opening the bowling, Ashish took two wickets for no run in the first overand dismissed another in his second as CAT slumped to two for four in pursuit of a target of 189. The match was reduced to 30 overs-a-side after a considerable delay due to wet outfield.

Hrishikesh Borah (42) and Dinesh Kumar Rai (27) then kept Alpine at bay but Borah fell prey to AmitRajera brilliance and any lingering hope CAT had gone with him.

Earlier, Alpine’s top order struggled and slumped to 70-4 after being sent in, but the former champions rallied to post 188-6. AfzalHussainblasted a 26-ball 47 not out, and AmitRajera (23) and Sumit Singh (34) combined for a 50-run partnership to ensure that Alpine had a formidable total.

CAT,in reply, were bowled out for 125 with Ashish returning 6-19 from six overs, disturbing the furniture thrice with his in-swingers.  

The only saving grace for the CAT was a 42-run knock by Borah, who looked to be in good touch before he was dismissed run out trying to steal a quick single. Amit produced an excellent effort in the field as his direct hit from backward point ended Borah’s innings.

It was another stellar show with the ball fromAshish, who was thrust into the role of new-ball bowler after Alpine lost one of its seamers to injury.

With his career-best figures today, Ashish climbed to the top of bowling charts. He has claimed 13 wickets so far in three matches, conceding just 45 runs.

With the win, Apline SC reached the fourth final is as many editions of the tournament. 

Wednesday’s second semi-final will seePakyong Eleven, who topped their group with two wins and a draw, face JBCC ‘A’ from Jorethang.