In a thrilling encounter at the MCA International Stadium, the Ratnagiri Jets showcased their dominance yet again, clinching their third consecutive win in the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) 2024 by defeating the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Kings (CSK) with a five-wicket victory.
Jet-Powered Chase
Led by a stellar performance from opener Dhiraj Phatangare, who contributed a blazing half-century (50 off 23 balls, including 8 boundaries and 2 sixes), and skipper Azim Kazi’s composed innings (52 off 40 balls, with 7 boundaries), the Ratnagiri Jets successfully chased down the formidable target of 189 runs with seven balls to spare.
Early Hurdles Overcome
The Jets’ chase encountered initial hurdles with the early dismissals of Krish Shahpurkar and impact player Preetam Patil. However, a remarkable turnaround was orchestrated in the fifth over, spearheaded by Dhiraj Phatangare’s explosive batting display against left-arm spinner Hitesh Walunj. Phatangare’s onslaught, accompanied by crucial contributions from Divyang Hinganekar and skipper Kazi, ensured that the Jets maintained momentum throughout their innings.
CSK’s Resilient Stand
Earlier in the match, CSK displayed resilience, courtesy of a formidable partnership between Onkar Khatpe and Digvijay Patil. The duo orchestrated a remarkable 108-run stand in just 77 balls, steering CSK from a precarious position of 8 for 2 to a competitive total. Despite facing initial setbacks against the bowling prowess of Divyang Hinganekar, Khatpe and Patil showcased commendable batting prowess, keeping the Ratnagiri bowlers on their toes.
Bowling Brilliance
Ratnagiri’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Divyang Hinganekar and Nikit Dhumal, exhibited commendable skill and determination. While Hinganekar’s early breakthroughs provided crucial momentum for the Jets, Dhumal’s disciplined bowling in the latter stages of the innings proved instrumental in restricting CSK’s total. Pradeep Dadhe’s clinical display in the final over further bolstered Ratnagiri’s bowling effort, ensuring that CSK fell short of the anticipated 200-run mark.
