Panaji witnessed a heart-stopping cricket encounter as Priority Titans edged past Baale Tigers by a solitary run in Qualifier 2 of the PGML 5.0 tournament, organised by the Panaji Gymkhana. Played at the Bandodkar Ground, the high-stakes clash lived up to expectations, delivering a finish that kept spectators on the edge of their seats until the very last ball.
After being put in to bat, Priority Titans posted a competitive total of 163 for 9 in their 20 overs. Heramb Shankar Parab anchored the innings with a composed 50 off 41 balls, while Rijul Pathak added a steady 37. Kiran Shirwaikar provided the much-needed acceleration with a quickfire 34 off just 15 deliveries, and Jaipal Mada chipped in with an unbeaten 21 towards the end to push the total to a defendable score.
In response, Baale Tigers began confidently, with Lakshay Garg and Sandeep Dahad stitching together a solid opening stand. Samar Dubhashi further strengthened the chase with a well-paced 40, keeping his side firmly in contention.
The match reached a dramatic climax in the final over, with Baale Tigers needing 10 runs off the last two balls. Niraj Lotlekar’s boundary off the penultimate delivery reignited hopes, and four byes off the final ball brought the equation down to the barest margin. However, the Titans held their nerve to seal a thrilling one-run victory.
With this win, Priority Titans advance to the grand finale, where they will face RC Goa. Heramb Shankar Parab’s all-round brilliance, including his crucial half-century and two wickets, earned him the Man of the Match award.
As anticipation builds for the final, cricket fans can expect another electrifying contest, with dignitaries including Digambar Kamat and former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes set to grace the occasion.
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