Nainital SG Pipers Clinch Thrilling Victory to Secure Eliminator Spot

The Nainital SG Pipers secured a seven-wicket win over the Pithoragarh Hurricanes in the Uttarakhand Premier League 2024, clinching a spot in the eliminator. Key performances from Priyanshu Khanduri and Kartik Bhatt helped them chase down a target of 169 with just three balls to spare.

In an electrifying Friday evening match, the Nainital SG Pipers triumphed over the Pithoragarh Hurricanes by seven wickets, booking their place in the eliminator of the Uttarakhand Premier League 2024. The thrilling encounter saw Nainital's top-order batsmen rise to the occasion, ensuring a victory with just three balls to spare.

Chasing a target of 169, the Pipers got off to a flying start, racking up 13 runs in the first over. However, an early setback came as star opener Avneesh Sudha was dismissed in the second over. Stabilizing the innings, Kartik Bhatt and Priyanshu Khanduri formed a cautious but crucial partnership.

At the 10-over mark, the Pipers stood strong at 90/1. Sunny Kashyap then broke the partnership, dismissing Bhatt for 40 off 31 balls. Bhanu Pratap Singh joined Khanduri, adding 55 more runs before Singh fell for 33. Khanduri, with an unbeaten 62 off 44 balls, guided the team to the finish line.

The Hurricanes, already assured of their eliminator spot, had earlier posted 168/9 despite losing key wickets. Vishal Kashyap led the innings with a steady 40 off 30 balls, supported by Parmender Chadda's 17 and Priyank Singh's rapid 23 off 9 deliveries.

(With inputs from agencies.)