Margao witnessed an action-packed day of cricket as the GSB Unity Cup 3.0 delivered thrilling encounters at the MCC Ground, with K.K. Strikers and Shamrao Tridents emerging victorious in their respective matches.
In the morning clash, K.K. Strikers put up an imposing total of 205 for 9 in 20 overs. Opener Viraj Puranik led the charge with a blistering 55 off just 24 balls, laced with boundaries, while Rauji Kakodkar’s unbeaten 44 off 20 balls powered the innings past the 200-run mark. Ramnath Prabhu Bam also chipped in with a valuable 37. For Dempo Challengers, Shridhar Keni stood out with the ball, claiming three wickets.
Chasing a daunting target, Dempo Challengers showed glimpses of resistance through captain Samar Dubhashi (55), Tunish Sawkar (32), and Vibhav Pai (34). However, regular wickets and a lack of support from the lower order saw them fall short at 173. Rasik Pai Khot turned the game with a match-winning spell of 4 for 22, sealing a 32-run victory for the Strikers.
The second match proved to be a tighter contest, with Shamrao Tridents defending a modest total of 150 for 9. Deval Karmali’s impressive 53 and Siddhant Kunde’s steady unbeaten 37 anchored the innings, despite regular wickets. Rising Stars of Ponda bowlers Tanmay Sukhthankar and Shaunit Sawardekar kept things in check with three wickets each.
In response, Rising Stars struggled early but fought back through Ved Mahambre’s 50 and captain Prasheel Kamat’s 34. However, disciplined bowling from the Tridents, led by Kritin Bhangui’s 3 for 18, ensured they were bowled out for 135, handing Tridents a 15-run win.
Rasik Pai Khot was named Desserts N More Player of the Match, while Viraj Puranik received the Kamat Realty Hero of the Match award in the first game. In the second match, Siddhant Kunde and Deval Karmali were recognised for their standout performances.
With strong performances and competitive spirit on display, the GSB Unity Cup 3.0 continues to celebrate grassroots cricket and emerging talent in Goa.
