SRINAGAR: Delhi SP Higher Secondary School by 26 runs in the summit clash of U-19 cricket tournament played at SP School here.
Batting first DPS Srinagar took advantage of the positive intent of its openers: Moosa and Zerak, who sent their opponents on leather hunt scoring 40 runs off the power play. Though SP Hr Sec managed to exert some control on the run rate after that, a 19-run cameo by Baleegh ensured they reached a commanding target of 142.
In reply SP Higher Secondary School openers consumed too many delivers and were not able to score freely as DPS bowlers maintained tight line and length and ensured that their opponents sniffed no chance of chasing down the target.
After the opening bowlers had restricted the score to 25 runs in the powerplay, SP lost seven wickets in the middle overs: three to Baleegh while Humayun and Amaan bagged two apiece. By the last over, it was a task too steep as SP was bowled out losing by 26 runs. Baleegh was declared the Man of the Match justifiably for his all-round match-winning performance.
Pertinent to mention, 36 teams from District Srinagar participated in the tournament and DPS Srinagar was the only team to remain undefeated.
Commenting on the win, the Principal Shafaq Afshan congratulated the students and said, “It is hardly a surprise that our cricket team has emerged winners. We are always invested in the excellence of students, and they in turn repay our faith with exemplary performances. Congratulations to the team and its coach” Chairman Vijay Dhar also commented: “DPS Srinagar stands today at the pinnacle of achievement and success due to its unwavering commitment to nurturing talent in all respects – sporting, academic, and other kinds. Our conviction will not vary and wins like these lift our morale. Congratulations to the cricket team.”