Bowlers Dominate In Mayor’s Cup Final
Dynamic school cricket at its best as bowlers rule a nail-biting pink ball final - Wow!!!
Srijita De is a sports, makeup and fashion enthusiast with passion for providing readers with latest updates in the field. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world at Stylecraze, and sports at Cricketsweep.
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The under-15 cricket action at the JU 2nd Campus Ground in Salt Lake has reached an electrifying juncture in the Mayor’s Cup final, as Cathedral Mission High School’s bowlers take full control of the game. Chasing a modest target of 185, St Johns Public School found themselves reeling after losing their first four batsmen for a mere 2 runs within the opening 3 overs. With the pressure mounting, the visitors managed to scrape together only 36/6 in 12 overs by the end of the day.
Bowling Masterclass At Play
A brilliant display of precision and pace was on full show as Pragyamoy Chakraborty delivered an exceptional performance, claiming figures of 4 for 15. His efforts, combined with Akash Yadav’s tight spell of 2 for 15, have left the chasing team gasping for breath. The swift breakdown of St Johns Public School’s batting order has clearly demonstrated the dominance of Cathedral Mission High School’s bowlers. This disciplined bowling attack has not only stifled the runs but also set a tone that could prove decisive in the final outcome of this high-stakes encounter.
Earlier on, the innings of Cathedral Mission High School had its own narrative of struggle and resilience. Batting first, they were bowled out for 184 in 73.2 overs. However, contributions from key batters like Subhra Kamal Halder, who scored 38 runs, and a solid 35 from Akash (whose efforts with the bat were as important as his bowling later), provided the team with a competitive total. This innings laid the foundation for a game that would soon shift dramatically in favor of the bowlers.
For St Johns Public School, there was a glimmer of promise in the form of their bowlers. Piyush Karan, taking 4 for 68, and Ayush Kr Prasad, with figures of 3 for 29, did their best to stem the flow of Cathedral’s scoring. However, their individual efforts were overshadowed by the overall collapse of their batting lineup, which could hardly see beyond the initial low score.
Pink Ball Practice Set The Stage
In a move that added an extra twist to the final, both teams were given a two-hour session with the pink ball the day before the final. This preparatory session, held at the same ground, allowed the young cricketers to get accustomed to the unique conditions of a pink ball match. Coaches and support staff worked with the players to fine-tune their grip and swing, equipping them for the nuances of playing under lights and in different weather conditions.
The introduction of the pink ball in this final has brought about an added layer of excitement to the tournament. Traditionally used in day-night matches, the pink ball can behave quite differently compared to its white counterpart. Its distinct characteristics—varying grip, unusual bounce, and different levels of swing—were in full display as the bowlers exploited these qualities to dismantle the opposition’s batting. The session not only provided the teams with a tactical edge but also underscored the modern innovations being embraced at the school level.
Behind the scenes, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) continues to champion such tournaments and initiatives that nurture young talent. The organization’s relentless efforts, in close coordination with local bodies and clubs, ensure that school-level cricket receives the attention it deserves. Events like the Mayor’s Cup not only showcase emerging cricketers but also pave the way for a brighter future for Bengal cricket.
In the unfolding drama of this under-15 final, Cathedral Mission High School’s bowlers have set a challenging target, leaving St Johns Public School with an uphill task in the second innings. With the final played over two days and each team allotted 85 overs, the stage is set for an intriguing climax to this tournament. As players from both sides regroup and plan for the decisive session, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the turnaround that the opening day’s performances might precipitate.
This match is a testament to the importance of early competitive exposure in nurturing cricketing talent. With disciplined bowling and strategic field placements, Cathedral Mission High School has showcased how determination and skill at a young age can make a significant impact. As the players prepare to return for the next session, the excitement in the air is palpable—not only for the immediate finish but also for the promising careers that may begin on this very turf.
The Mayor’s Cup final serves as a vibrant reminder that grassroots cricket is alive and well, brimming with passion and potential. With every ball bowled and every run scored, these young athletes are writing their own cricketing stories under the watchful eyes of seasoned mentors and enthusiastic fans alike.
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