GANGTOK,: A year after their heartbreak in the
SICA ‘A’ Division final in 2023, Pakyong XI emerged triumphant today, a
comprehensive eight-wicket victory over Cricket Association of Tathangchen,
meaning they are now the first team to conquer
the ‘C’ Division, ‘B’ Division and ‘A’ Division titles.
In their third final appearance in as
many as elite tournaments, including Vinod Pradhan Memorial Trophy last month, Parvin
Kuikel led from the front as Pakyong XI registered an easy eight-wicket win
over Cricket Association of Tathangchen at the Sikkim Cricket Ground, Mining on
Sunday.
Opting to bowl first after winning the
toss, Pakong XI took wickets at regular interval. The Cricket Association of
Tathangchen struggled to build momentum and was ultimately bowled out for 113
runs. Leg spinner Parvin recorded excellent figures of 8-2-22-4, while Om Saini
bagged two wickets.
Senior batters AJ Surya and Lee Yong
Lepcha (C) seemed to have steadied the innings but Parvin pinned both right in
front to trigger a collapse with their last five wickets
falling for just 19 runs.
Chasing 114, Pakyong XI encountered an
early setback with the loss of opener Karma Thinley. However, Om Saini found his
form and Pranesh Chettri and Bhaskar Bhardwaj were at their best. The trio ensured
a smooth sail for Pakyong, reaching the target in 17.1 overs.
Parvin Kuikel was adjudged player of the
match for his brilliant bowling performance, while Bhaskar Bhardwaj won the player
of the tournament award for his all-round display (189 runs and 7 wickets).
Bhardwaj also claimed the title of highest run scorer, while Lee Yong Lepcha
finished as the highest wicket taker with 11 dismissals.
With the triumph, Pakyong XI became only
the third to win the tournament after Alpine Sporting Club and Black Eagles.
SICA president Tika Subba, accompanied
by secretary Rinzing Namgyal Bhutia and treasurer Mukesh Agarwal, presented
trophies, medals, and a cheque of Rs. 2 lakh to the Pakyong XI team, while the
Cricket Association of Tathangchen received Rs. 1 lakh.
