East Khasi Hills Cricket Association produced an all-round performance with bat and ball that saw them defeat West Khasi Hills District Cricket Association by a massive 159 runs in their Zone 1 Group B match of the Meghalaya Cricket Association’s U-19 Boys Inter District Cricket Tournament today.
Meanwhile, the other match saw East Garo Hills DCA bowl out North Garo Hills DCA in a low scoring match to win by 19 runs in the single group Zone 2.
At Umbuda, Nongpoh, EKH were put into bat first after losing the toss and they hit a big total of 216/3 in a reduced 28 overs. A superb opening partnership gave EKH a strong start, with Despenly Syiemlieh making an unbeaten 85 from 76 deliveries (7x4s, 3x6s) while Arwanbiang Shangpliang made 62 from 59 (he also hit seven fours and three sixes). The two put on 109 for the first wicket, which was finally broken by Gabriel Thabah, who ultimately took 2/45.
WKH were then unable to make much headway in the chase, ultimately being dismissed for 57 in 15.4 overs thanks to the sterling bowling of Daulabiang Shangpliang, who netted 6/15 in 3.4 overs. WKH’s Number 9 Banpynkmen Kharsyntiew top-scored with 11.
In Salpara, Mendipathar, EGH registered a second win in as many days as they overcame a decent challenge by NGH; yesterday EGH had beaten South Garo Hills DCA by eight wickets.
Today, EGH batted first after winning the toss and were bowled out for 137 in 23.4 out of a possible 25 overs. Lensbirth N Marak (53 from 51, 4x4s, 3x6s) top-scored for a second time in as many days, this time with a half-century. He was well-supported by Thunun N Marak, who made a run-a-ball 39 (1x4s, 3x6s). Dorith Marak was the most successful bowler for hosts NGH, claiming 4/44 in 4.4 overs, even if he was a little expensive. Fraidian Momin (2/9) and Chongkam Marak (2/15) picked up a brace each.
NGH were ultimately all out for 118 in 23.1 overs and they gave a good account of themselves. Rituraj hit 37 from 35 balls (1x4s, 3x6s), while Dallang Sangma contributed 24 from 28 lower down the order. However, NGH were hampered in the chase by the bowling of Gulgul Sangma, who was economical and dangerous, taking 4/8 in a maximum 5 overs, while Andam N Marak chipped in with 2/17 in 4.1 overs.
Tomorrow, Ri-Bhoi DCA will face East Jaintia Hills DCA in Zone 1’s Group A, while South Garo Hills will be up against Tura DCA in Zone 2.
