In a dominant display of power-hitting, Royal Goodwill secured a comprehensive victory over Sky Stars Budgam in the eliminator match of the ongoing Kashmir Cup 2024. The match, held at the TRC Ground, saw Royal Goodwill’s blistering batting lineup set a mammoth target, cruising to a 117-run victory and earning a spot in the qualifiers.
After winning the toss, Royals’ skipper Auqib Mir opted to bat first on a pitch known for its batting-friendly conditions. The decision paid off as openers Ishtiyaq Rasool (Naag) and Abid Nabi set the tone early with an explosive 124-run partnership. Rasool’s blistering knock of 82 off just 26 balls, including a flurry of boundaries, left the opposition stunned. His partner, Abid Nabi, contributed a solid 59 off 36 deliveries. Ishtiyaq Eilahi (Robby) added quick runs with a fast-paced 44 off 25 balls, while Sameer Pollard (24 off 15) and Imran Zargar (23 off 9) delivered the finishing touches, helping Royal Goodwill post an imposing total of 254 runs.
Sky Stars’ bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Shabir Lefty taking 3 wickets and Yasir Kulgami picking up 2 wickets.
In reply, Sky Stars Budgam faltered right from the start, losing wickets at regular intervals. The team’s power hitter, Nasir Kumar, failed to get going as the team found themselves in trouble early, losing their first wicket at just 6 runs. With the quick dismissals of both Saqib Pandya and Nasir Kumar by the score of 28, Sky Stars never recovered and were eventually bowled out for 136 runs in just 15.2 overs.
Rouf Bashir was the standout bowler for Royal Goodwill, claiming 3 wickets, while Ishtiyaq Rasool and Jahid Tragh contributed with 2 wickets each.
Ishtiyaq Rasool’s all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match award, alongside the Game Changer and Super Sixes accolades.
With this win, Royal Goodwill advances to the qualifier match, scheduled for September 12, where they will fight for a spot in the Kashmir Cup 2024 final. Meanwhile, Sky Stars Budgam’s journey comes to an end.
The tournament is organized and sponsored by Dalgate Sports Club.
