The Nairobi Provincial Cricket Association (NPCA) 50-Overs League witnessed an action-packed weekend with impressive performances from top teams.
Swamibapa A, Stray Lions A, Kanbis A, and Ruaraka A secured vital victories, while Ruaraka B and Obuya Academy A dominated in Division One.
Swamibapa A’s Dominant Win
Swamibapa A continued their relentless pursuit of the NPCA 50-Overs League title with a well-earned five-wicket victory over hosts Shree Cutchi Leva Patel Samaj (SCLPS YL A) at Nairobi West.
Samaj, put into bat first, faced a devastating start as four of their batters were dismissed with only five runs on the board. They were eventually bowled out for a mere 153 runs.
In response, Swamibapa A showcased a solid opening partnership between Harshvardan Patel (36 off 24 balls) and Hrendra Halai (58 from 55), who filled in for the injured skipper Rush Patel.
Dhwanil Patel, the wicketkeeper, contributed a vital 36 off 42 deliveries with four boundaries, ensuring Swamibapa reached the target with ease, securing a five-wicket win and maximum points.
Stray Lions A Bounce Back
Stray Lions A returned to form with a five-wicket victory over Sikh Union at Nairobi Jaffery’s. Stray Lions’ bowlers thrived in the challenging morning conditions, with Neeraj Mishra taking 4 for 11, including a hat-trick, restricting Sikh Union to a paltry 64 runs.
Jasraj Kundi top-scored for Sikh Union with 17 runs off 25 deliveries.
Despite the low target, Stray Lions’ batters faced difficulties but managed to secure the win. Neil Mugabe (28) and Libin Raj (23) led the chase, guiding the Lions to victory in 15.1 overs.
This win was a significant morale booster for Stray Lions, who had suffered a defeat to Kenya Kongonis the previous weekend.
Kanbis A’s Comprehensive Victory
Kanbis A showcased their dominance with a 116-run victory over hosts Nairobi Gymkhana. Skipper Dhiren Gondaria was the star of the match, scoring an impressive 87 off 74 balls. Kanbis set a formidable target of 343 for 8 in their 50 overs.
In response, Gymkhana was bowled out for 227 in 46.5 overs. Rakep Patel contributed 68 runs off 36 balls with eight sixes, while Rohan Timbe top-scored for Gymkhana with 85 off 101 balls.
Kanbis’ professional player Dhruvam Patel was the standout bowler, claiming five wickets and dismantling Gymkhana’s batting lineup.
Ruaraka A’s Commanding Performance
Champions Ruaraka A continued their winning streak with a 68-run victory over Sir Ali Muslim Club (SAMC A). Pro Gautam Waghela’s century and Prasad Abhyankar’s unbeaten 70 helped Ruaraka set a challenging target of 345.
Pushkar Sharma contributed a steady 52 runs. Despite valiant efforts from SAMC’s Nithin Arvind (57 off 37), Onkar Jadhav (93 off 76), and Eugene Ochieng (48 off 65), SAMC were bowled out for 277.
Ruaraka’s Nitish Hirani (3 for 19) and Rinkesh Vekaria (3 for 37) were the key bowlers in dismantling SAMC’s batting lineup.
Division One Highlights
In Division One action, Ruaraka B celebrated a five-wicket win over Sir Ali Muslim Club B, marking a double victory for the Thika Road contingent. Obuya Academy A also secured a significant victory with a 58-run win over Ngara A.
Kanbis B triumphed at Eastleigh High, defeating Gymkhana B by nine wickets. Goan Institute A overcame Wolves Cricket Club A by 135 runs at Viraj Grounds, while Sikh Union B avenged their A team’s loss by beating Stray Lions B by four wickets.
This weekend’s matches highlighted the competitive spirit and talent in the NPCA 50-Overs League, with teams showcasing their skills and determination as they vie for top honors in the league.
