Dimapur, May 12 (MExN): A spirited all-round display from Imliwati powered Nagaland to a gritty 21-run victory over Sikkim in a low-scoring thriller at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium, while Manipur bulldozed Mizoram by a whopping 202 runs in a one-sided contest at Sovima, setting up a much-anticipated semifinal clash between the two northeastern sides in the 3rd NECDC Senior Men’s Interstate Friendship Tournament 2025.
On a testing pitch at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium, Imliwati emerged as the standout performer, scoring a patient 27 off 63 balls to guide Nagaland to 120 all out in 39.4 overs, before dismantling Sikkim’s middle and lower order with a match-winning spell of 4 for 10 in 10 overs.
Nagaland, who chose to bat first after winning the toss, found runs hard to come by as Sikkim’s bowlers applied consistent pressure. Ankur claimed 3 wickets for 37 runs, supported by Lee Yong Lepcha (2/12), Bijay Prasad (2/13), and Bhim Luitel (2/18), as Nagaland struggled to build partnerships.
In response, Sikkim’s chase never gathered momentum. Arun Chettri held one end with a determined 34 off 81 balls, but lacked support as wickets fell at regular intervals. Imliwati’s disciplined spell sealed Sikkim’s fate, bowling them out for 99 in 43 overs.
“Player of the Match” Imliwati not only top-scored with the bat but also delivered a stunning bowling effort that ensured a home win and qualification for the semifinal.
Manipur dismantles Mizoram
At Sovima Cricket Ground, Manipur delivered one of the tournament’s most comprehensive performances, posting a daunting 290/7 in 40 overs before bowling out Mizoram for just 88 in 25.1 overs.
Jotin Singh Pheiroijam led Manipur’s batting charge with a fluent 68 off 51 balls, while Raj Kumar Rex Singh (59 off 24) and Pukhrambam Prafullomani Singh (57 off 51) provided explosive support. Mizoram bowlers Naveen Gurung (2/5) and G. Lalbiakvela (2/52) picked up wickets but couldn’t halt the run flow.
Chasing 291, Mizoram faltered early and never recovered. Johan Lalbiakkima’s 22 off 21 balls was the only bright spot in an otherwise dismal batting display. Manipur’s Mutum Swabhiman bagged 3 for 27, as Mizoram folded under relentless pressure.
Jotin Singh Pheiroijam, for his dominant batting and sharp fielding, was named Player of the Match.
Upcoming Semifinals – May 13
Nagaland vs Manipur
Venue: Nagaland Cricket Stadium, Dimapur
Time: 9:00 AM
Meghalaya vs Arunachal Pradesh
Venue: Sovima Cricket Ground, Dimapur
Time: 9:00 AM
