DIMAPUR, APRIL 2 (MExN): The much anticipated semi-final match between Nagaland and Meghalaya had to be abandoned yet again for the second time after rain created spoilt sport. Owing to this result Nagaland as table toppers of Group-2 will proceed to the Finals to take on mighty Manipur for the 1st NECDC Interstate Senior Men's Friendship trophy.
Earlier Nagaland having won the toss decided to field first and put the Meghalaya team to bat. Everything seemed to be working as planned for team Nagaland as the bowlers were able to restrict and check the opening batsmen from Meghalaya and in the process they got out Raj Biswa, Arien Bonchang and Wallambok Nongkhlaw cheaply for a score of 1, 6 and 0 respectively.
Meanwhile Kishan Lyngdoh 22 runs and Kevin 24 runs steadied the innings for their team. Nagaland bowlers had a great start with the ball as Hopongkyu Sangtam, Nagaho Chishi and Imliwati shared 2 wickets each and Tahmeed Rahman took a lone wicket. However it was the late cameo from Jaskirat 43 runs and Akash 45 runs who also remained not out to take Meghalaya to a big total of 168 runs on the scoreboard losing 9 wickets after the match got reduced to 38 overs per side.
Nagaland run chase could not progress as rain interrupted the play with Hem Bahadur Chetri batting on 6 runs and Yugandhar Singh batting on 15 runs with 23 total runs on the board in 9.1 overs without losing any wickets.
The final match between Nagaland and Manipur will take place on the 3rd of April 2023 at Nagaland Cricket Stadium at 12:00 noon.
Neiphiu Rio, CM of Nagaland and Convenor NECDC will grace the finals and the prize distribution ceremony as the special guest. The NCA has invited all sports lovers and supporters to be a part of the finals at Nagaland Cricket Stadium and the entry for the public will be from Gate No. 2.
