Puri Titans snatch dramatic victory in final over thriller
Puri Titans chased down 140 runs to defeat Keonjhar Miners by two wickets in an intense Bharat Masala Odisha T20 League – CM Trophy encounter. Aashirwad Swain sealed the dramatic finish on Thursday at Barabati Stadium. Requiring 15 runs from the final six balls, he maintained his composure to hit the winning runs. This iconic Cuttack venue continues to host top domestic tournaments to promote rising regional sports talent.
Batters from Keonjhar faced immense pressure initially after being asked to set a target. Harshit Rathod and Sunil Roul claimed quick wickets, leaving the side reeling at 19 for three within three overs. Middle-order batters gradually rebuilt the innings. Subhranshu Senapati managed 31 runs off 32 deliveries. Prakash Singh contributed a rapid 33 from just 19 balls. Vageesh Sharma added an unbeaten 23 from 12 balls late in the innings, pushing the team total to 140 for nine.
Puri bowlers delivered strong performances throughout the first half. Sarbeswar Mohanty took three wickets for 30 runs in his four overs. Roul finished with three for 29, while Rathod grabbed two for 20 runs.
Chasing the target proved difficult for Puri Titans. Wickets tumbled frequently as Jamala Mohapatra bowled brilliantly to claim three for nine runs in his four overs. Pankala Sasanka anchored the chase with a steady 47 runs from 42 balls. By the 18th over, the Titans were struggling at 113 for eight. Swain finally took charge during the decisive final over to secure the thrilling result.
Speaking about his match-winning knock, Swain expressed relief and excitement. "It’s great to get the first win. We have had a positive start and I’m grateful that I was able to contribute," he said. Swain earned the Player of the Match award from Srimanta Panda, Director of Bharat Masala. Mohanty won the Moment of the Match honor, presented by Zeus Worldcast Director Gulshan Jhurani.
