Shami’s Heroics Lead Bengal to Victory

Mohammed Shami’s outstanding three-wicket spell propelled Bengal to a commanding eight-wicket win over Hyderabad in Group A of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on Monday. Playing his first white-ball tournament since the previous ODI World Cup, Shami delivered a stellar performance, taking 3 for 21 in 3.3 overs, as Hyderabad was dismissed for 137 in 18.3 overs.

Shami’s efforts were well-supported by Karan Lal and Shahbaz Ahmed, who claimed two wickets each. Despite a valiant knock from India batter Tilak Varma, who scored 57 off 44 balls, Hyderabad struggled to post a competitive total.

Chasing 138, Bengal made light work of the target, achieving it in just 17.5 overs. Openers Abhishek Porel (41) and Karan Lal (46) put together a solid partnership of 84 runs in 9.5 overs, ensuring Bengal maintained control throughout the chase.

In another match, India’s middle-order batter Rinku Singh powered Uttar Pradesh to a dominant seven-wicket win over Himachal Pradesh in Group C. Singh smashed an unbeaten 45 off 24 balls, helping his team chase down 100 in just 13.3 overs. Earlier, former India leg-spinner Piyush Chawla starred with the ball, taking 4 for 12, while pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, fresh off being acquired by Royal Challengers Bengaluru for INR 10.75 crore in the IPL auction, chipped in with a wicket.

The day’s matches highlighted standout performances from seasoned players and emerging stars, making for thrilling cricketing action.