Punjab’s Arshdeep Singh delivers clutch over to seal Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title
After four failed attempts, Punjab clinched their first-ever Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title with a thrilling win over Baroda in a high-scoring game in Mohali. Punjab defended their total despite dropping four catches, including three of Baroda captain Krunal Pandya, and managed to secure victory.
With Punjab needing to defend 32 off 12 with seven wickets in hand for Baroda, Arshdeep Singh delivered a crucial over, taking three wickets in five balls, including that of Krunal, to essentially end the contest. Despite an unlikely heist attempt by Baroda, Arshdeep remained composed and sealed the match for Punjab.
Anmolpreet Singh’s century and Nehal Wadhera’s unbeaten 61 off 27 deliveries played a crucial role in Punjab’s victory.
Wadhera’s quick start and Anmolpreet’s first-ever century in the finals fueled Punjab’s scoring, with nine sixes and three fours coming off their last 21 deliveries.
Ninad Rathva scored 47 off 20 to strengthen Baroda’s position, but Krunal’s slice of luck and Abhimanyusingh Rajput’s aggressive innings could not rescue Baroda. Despite the late dramatic surge by Baroda, Arshdeep managed to secure the victory for Punjab.
Shashank Kishore, senior sub-editor at ESPNcricinfo
