Players of Nagaland’s Under-23 cricket team for Col CK Nayudu Trophy 2023-24 and other pose for lens after the match against Manipur at Sovima Cricket Ground, Sovima on January 31. (Photo Courtesy: NCA)
Sovima, January 31 (MExN): Nagaland’s Under-23 cricket team unbeaten run in the ongoing Col CK Nayudu Trophy 2023-24 continued on Wednesday with a dominating 299 runs victory over Manipur at the Sovima Cricket Ground, Sovima.
Winning the toss and opting to bat first on the Day-I on January 28, Nagaland showcased their fine batting form with skipper Hem playing a captain's innings, notching up a century (114 runs off 237 balls).
Mughavi Sumi provided solid support, contributing 59 runs, as Nagaland's 1st innings concluded at 284 runs in 95.4 over. Romario and Kiran Laishram of Manipur picked up 4 wickets each.In response, Manipur struggled in their 1st innings and were bowled out for 189 runs.
Nagaland's bowlers Neizekho and Hem dismantled the Manipur batting line-up, picking up 5 and 4 wickets respectively.
Manipur's captain, Ulenyai Khwairakpam, made the only notable contribution with a score of 86 runs off 130 balls.
In the 2nd innings, Nagaland continued their dominance, and declaring the match at a mammoth 365/7 runs. Mughavi and Sujal Prasad led the charge with centuries, scoring 101 runs off 219 balls and 111 runs off 74 balls, respectively. Laishram was the most successful bowler for Manipur, picking up 5 wickets.
Chasing a daunting target of 461 runs for victory, Manipur struggled against Nagaland's bowling attack, getting bowled out for 161 runs and losing the match by 299 runs. Tohuka led the bowling charge with a 5-wicket haul.
With this, Nagaland's unbeaten streak extended to four matches, placing them at the top of the Plate Group with 25 points.
However, the team's prospects of advancing to the next stage will be determined by its upcoming encounter against the second-placed Meghalaya in a match scheduled from February 4-7 at MCA Ground, Polo Ground, Shillong.
