It was a night of high drama and edge-of-the-seat action in Margao as Vimson Panjim Powerplay clinched a sensational one-run victory over Madgaon Royals CC in the GSB Unity Cup 3.0, organised by the Goa GSB Sports and Charitable Trust.
Played under floodlights at the MCC Ground, the match delivered everything a cricket fan could hope for — a competitive total, strong individual performances, and a finish that went right down to the final ball.
Chasing 160 for victory, Madgaon Royals CC fought hard but fell just short, ending at 158 for 7 in their 20 overs. The match reached its peak in the final delivery, where the Royals needed four runs to win and three to tie. In a desperate attempt to complete the third run, Granthik Buyao was run out, handing Vimson Panjim Powerplay a dramatic one-run win.
Earlier in the evening, after winning the toss, Madgaon Royals opted to field first. Vimson Panjim Powerplay posted a competitive total of 159 for 7, thanks to a composed and captain’s knock from Amod Borkar. Leading from the front, he scored a fluent 50 off 39 balls, including five boundaries and a six.
He was well supported by Shivam Varik, who contributed 31 off 25 balls, and Siddhant Amonkar, who added a quickfire 30 off just 19 deliveries. The innings was further boosted by 21 extras, which proved crucial in the end.
For Madgaon Royals, Sanat Prabhudessai was the standout bowler, returning impressive figures of 2 for 23, while Samprabh Phaldesai and Kartik Hattangadi chipped in with a wicket each.
In response, Madgaon Royals mounted a strong chase led by Sahish Mahambrey, who played a blistering knock of 52 runs, smashing four boundaries and three sixes. Sanat Prabhudessai added 31 runs, while Damodar Pai Patnekar (20) and Kartik Hattangadi (17) provided valuable contributions in the middle order.
However, disciplined bowling by Vimson Panjim Powerplay kept the pressure intact. The team conceded just eight extras, a factor that ultimately made the difference in such a closely contested match. Amod Borkar, Kapil Sinai Borkar, and Siddesh Desai picked up a wicket each at crucial moments.
At the post-match presentation, Amod Borkar was named the Desserts N More Player of the Match for his all-round performance, while Siddesh Desai received the Kamat Realty Hero of the Match award.
The thrilling contest not only showcased the competitive spirit of local cricket in Goa but also highlighted how fine the margins can be in the game — where every run, every ball, and every decision counts.
