The Nairobi Provincial Cricket Association (NPCA) Super League title race has reached a thrilling juncture, with Swamibapa A reclaiming the top spot after a decisive 153-run victory over Nairobi Gymkhana.
This win has pushed the defending champions, Ruaraka Sports Club A, down to third place after they failed to secure any points over the weekend.
After nine weeks of intense competition, Swamibapa A and Kanbis A are tied at the top of the table with 24 points each.
However, Swamibapa, led by Rushab Patel, holds a slight advantage in Net Run Rate, having played an extra match. Both teams have completed their first leg matches, setting the stage for a fierce battle in the nine-team competition as the season progresses.
With Kanbis holding a match in hand, the coming weeks will be critical in determining who takes the lead.
Kanbis A demonstrated their dominance with a commanding five-wicket win over Kenya Kongonis at their Eastleigh grounds. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Kongonis suffered a top-order collapse, slumping to 37/5 in just 10 overs.
They were eventually bowled out for 134 in 31.1 overs. Kanbis chased down the target in only 15 overs, losing five wickets in the process, further boosting their Net Run Rate.
Swamibapa A’s victory was marked by standout performances from Sachin Gill and Yash Chavan. After being bowled out for 203 in 49.3 overs, Swamibapa’s bowlers wreaked havoc on Nairobi Gymkhana, dismissing them for just 50 runs in 14.4 overs.
Gill was exceptional with the ball, claiming six wickets, while Chavan anchored the batting with a well-crafted 70 off 84 balls. Youngster Neel Doshi also impressed with a bowling spell of 6/33 in 9.3 overs.
In another crucial match, Sikh Union A extended their winning streak with an 84-run triumph over Shree Cutchi Leva Patel Samaj (SCLPS YL A) at Nairobi West.
Sikh Union captain Sukhdeep Singh acknowledged the early pressure his team faced but praised the squad’s resilience and Shoaib’s critical half-century that set up a defendable total of 218.
The Sikhs’ bowling, led by Ali Raza and Aum Patel, ensured victory despite a few dropped catches, securing the vital four points.
Meanwhile, Sir Ali Muslim Club A returned to winning ways with a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over Stray Lions A, who remain at the bottom of the table after suffering their fifth loss of the season.
Sir Ali’s Gurdeep Singh “Sunny” led from the front, scoring 57 runs off 63 balls, while Hrushikesh Pawar tormented the Stray Lions’ batsmen, taking five wickets for just 17 runs.
As the Super League continues next weekend, all eyes will be on the top four teams as they battle for the coveted 2024 NPCA Super League title. Ruaraka A will look to bounce back against Stray Lions A, while Swamibapa A host SCLPS YL A at Nairobi Jaffrey’s.
Kanbis A will face Sir Ali A at Eastleigh grounds, and Kongonis A take on Nairobi Gymkhana A at Nairobi Club. The race for the title remains wide open, with the top teams eager to stake their claim.
