Keonjhar Miners defeated Kataka Panthers through stellar pace bowling.
Keonjhar Miners secured a decisive 26-run victory over Kataka Panthers in their latest Odisha T20 League CM Trophy encounter at Barabati Stadium. Superb bowling from Vageesh Sharma ensured Kataka fell well short of their 188-run target. He claimed four crucial wickets for just 33 runs in his four-over spell. This high-profile regional tournament continues to highlight emerging domestic cricket talents across Odisha.
Strong Batting Sets High Target
Keonjhar posted 187 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs after batting first. Opening batsman Rajesh Dhupar led the scoring with 58 runs off 40 deliveries. Captain Subhranshu Senapati added quick runs, hitting 36 from 21 balls. These two players built an 82-run partnership for the second wicket. This stand stabilized the innings following an early loss. Later in the order, Sujal Singh remained unbeaten on 42 off 30 balls. He kept the run rate high during the final overs.
Chasing 188, Kataka lost wickets early and slumped to 48 for 3. Kartik Biswal tried to fight back, scoring 22 off 13 balls. He and Biplab Samantray added 29 runs for the fourth wicket. However, Kataka could not maintain long partnerships. They were eventually bowled out for 161 in the final over. Biplab Samantray had earlier performed well with the ball, taking one wicket for 26 runs in four overs.
Vageesh Sharma dismantled the opposition batting lineup by striking at regular intervals. His performance earned him the Player of the Match honors. Bipin Rout, General Manager of Bharat Masala, presented him with the award. Following the match, Sharma expressed his satisfaction. He stated that contributing to team success feels great and taking wickets in important moments boosts his confidence. Rajesh Dhupar took home the Moment of the Match prize. Gulshan Jhurani, Director of Zeus Worldcast, handed out that specific accolade.
Vageesh Sharma in action
