India Capitals Edge Out Toyam Hyderabad in Thrilling 1-Run Victory in Legends League Cricket

India Capitals commenced their Legends League Cricket season with a 1-run win over Toyam Hyderabad. Ben Dunk's 60 propelled the Capitals to 185/5. Hyderabad fell just short at 184/7, despite Peter Trego's late surge. The Capitals’ bowlers, including standout Rahul Sharma, ensured the narrow win.

India Capitals began their Legends League Cricket (LLC) season 3 campaign with a thrilling 1-run victory over Toyam Hyderabad at the Barkatullah Khan Stadium on Saturday. Setting a challenging target of 186, aided by a 60-run innings from Ben Dunk and late hitting from Ashley Nurse and Colin de Grandhomme, the Capitals defended their score with disciplined bowling. Ben Dunk was named Man of the Match for his outstanding contribution. The Capitals will next face the Southern Superstars on September 25 at the same venue.

In his debut as captain, Ian Bell won the toss and chose to bat first, although the team faced early setbacks. Opener Dwayne Smith fell for 14 off 9 balls in the second over, while wicketkeeper Naman Ojha contributed a crucial 26 off 27 balls. At 47 for 2, Ian Bell struggled, scoring only 7 runs before exiting in the 9th over. Ben Dunk led the middle order with a remarkable knock of 60 off 35 deliveries, supported by Ashley Nurse (30 off 19) and Colin de Grandhomme (31* off 23), propelling the Capitals to 185 for the loss of 5 wickets.

From Hyderabad, Bipul Sharma and Samiullah Shinwari delivered economical spells. Sharma conceded 21 runs in 3 overs, and Shinwari claimed 2 wickets for 27 runs. Hyderabad's chase began well with Chadwick Walton (18 off 14) and George Worker (52 off 43) adding 41 runs. Gurkeerat Singh Mann contributed 28 off 20, but captain Suresh Raina struggled. George Worker's dismissal in the 17th over was pivotal, and despite Peter Trego's late 38 off 18 balls, Hyderabad fell short at 184/7. Zimbabwean bowler Mpofu and Rahul Sharma, who took 2 wickets for 21 runs in 4 overs, were exceptional under pressure.

(With inputs from agencies.)