Player of the Match: Vino G Zhimomi (Nagaland)
DIMAPUR, MAY 13 (MExN): Hosts Nagaland and Meghalaya have advanced to the final of the 3rd NECDC Senior Men’s Interstate Friendship Tournament 2025 after registering convincing wins in their respective semi-final matches played on Monday.
At the Nagaland Cricket Stadium, Nagaland defeated Manipur by four wickets in a rain-shortened encounter. Chasing a revised target of 148 in 42 overs, the home side reached 150 for six in 38.5 overs. Yugi anchored the innings with 46 off 48 balls, while Nchumbemo Humtsoe remained unbeaten on 35 off 64 balls to steer Nagaland into their third consecutive final.
Manipur, batting first, managed 159 in their allotted overs, with Jotin Singh Pheiroijam scoring a composed 72 off 86 balls. Nagaland’s bowlers, led by Vino G Zhimomi (3/14) and Akavi A Yeptho (3/30), restricted the opposition effectively. Zhimomi was adjudged Player of the Match for his economical and decisive spell.
In the second semi-final played at Sovima Cricket Ground, Meghalaya registered a dominant seven-wicket victory over Arunachal Pradesh. Bowling first, Meghalaya bundled out Arunachal for 101 in 33.1 overs, with Manish Sharma wreaking havoc to return with figures of 4 for 2 from 5.1 overs. He was well supported by Ram Gurung (3/21) and Aryan Borah (3/28). Neelam Obi (28) and Licha Jhon (22) were the top scorers for Arunachal.
In reply, Meghalaya chased down the target comfortably, finishing at 103 for 3 in just 19.3 overs. Arpit Bhatewara top-scored with an unbeaten 49 off 39 balls, guiding his team to a comprehensive win and a spot in the final.
With this, Nagaland will eye a historic title hat-trick, while Meghalaya enters the final with hopes of lifting their maiden NECDC championship.
Meanwhile, the closing and prize distribution ceremony will be held following the final match on May 15. The organisers have announced that Dr Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland and Convener of NECDC, will grace the event as the special guest.
Upcoming Fixture – Final (Day & Night)
• Match: Meghalaya vs Nagaland
• Venue: Nagaland Cricket Stadium
• Date: May 15
• Time: 1 PM
