Bara, May 16

Kalaiya Cricket Club lifted the title of the Jagshakti Sansad Cup Twenty20 Cricket Tournament here at the Sideshwar grounds today.

Kalaiya registered a seven-wicket victory over Ranchi Cricket Club that also avenged the group-round defeat over the visitors. Kalaiya received Rs 50,000 along with the winner’s trophy, while Ranchi earned Rs 25,000. Ranchi opted to bat first after winning the toss but the decision back fired as they were bowled out for a paltry 93 runs in 17.3 overs. In reply, Kalaiya raced to 94-3 in 18.2 overs.

Ranchi struggled against the pace attack of Kalaiya. Former national team skipper Binod Das finished with the figures of 5-18 in his four-over spell, while Avinash Karn, Aarif Sheikh and Basant Regmi grabbed a wicket apiece. Nikhil Jaishwal top scored for Ranchi with 25 off 29 balls with three fours, while Kamal Dubey scored 24 off 22 balls that included two fours and a six. Other Ranchi batsmen failed to reach double-figure mark.

In reply,  Kalaiya made a mediocre start with openers Sunil Dhamala and Amit Shrestha adding 34 runs in 6.5 overs before the latter was out for 17 off 20 balls. Dhamala scored 21 off 34 balls with the help of two fours. Anil Sah remained unbeaten on 24 off 19 balls that included a four and a six, while Aarif Sheikh scored 12 not out off 18 balls. Atul Anand took two wickets for Ranchi, while Monty Singh claimed one.

Monty Singh of Ranchi was adjudged the player of the tournament, while Basant Regmi of Kalaiya grabbed the best bowler’s award and his teammate Sunil Dhamala took the best batsman’s trophy.