Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk
Goa entered the knockout stage of the Cooch Behar Trophy Elite cricket tournament after holding Bengal to a hard-fought draw on Thursday, extending their unbeaten run in Group ‘D’. With three wins and one draw from four matches, Goa now stand at an impressive 23 points, securing qualification with one league match still remaining. The match, played at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani, showcased Goa’s discipline, determination, and ability to stand strong against one of the tournament’s toughest sides.
Bengal declared their second innings at 255 for 9 in 43 overs, setting Goa a challenging target of 229 runs. With the pitch favouring the bowlers and time running out, Goa approached the chase with caution and composure. They finished at 126 for 6 in 74.5 overs, ensuring the match ended in a draw and earning a valuable three points. Bengal settled for one.
Resuming from their overnight score of 185 for 4, Bengal added 70 runs in 12 overs but lost five wickets in the process. Goa’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, with Chigurupati Venkata leading the attack by taking 3 wickets for 58 runs. Shiven Borker supported well with figures of 2 for 52, while Mihir Kudalkar claimed a wicket. Bengal also suffered three run-outs, which helped Goa tighten their grip at crucial moments.
In Goa’s second innings, skipper Yash Kasvankar anchored the batting with a fighting 43 off 98 balls, hitting six boundaries in an innings defined by patience and responsibility. Opener Sarthak Bhike contributed a determined 30 off 130 balls, blunting Bengal’s attack and consuming valuable time. Shantanu Nevagi and Dishank Misquin played important supporting roles despite low scores, holding their wickets when the team needed stability the most. Aradhya Goyal remained unbeaten on 11 off 57 balls, while Mihir Kudalkar and Sai Naik ensured Goa did not crumble under pressure in the final session. For Bengal, Rohit Das and Rohit took two wickets each.
Earlier in the match, Bengal had posted 325 in 100.1 overs in their first innings. Goa responded strongly with 352 in 113.3 overs, gaining an important 27-run lead that played a crucial role in the final outcome. With momentum on their side and confidence running high, Goa now prepare for their final Group D match against Chandigarh on December 16.
The draw against Bengal reflects Goa’s growing maturity, depth, and resilience as a team. Their qualification for the knockouts highlights their consistent performances throughout the tournament and sets the stage for an exciting next phase as they chase greater glory.
