Surat, Feb 5 (.) Tiigers of Kolkata produced a commanding all-round performance to knock Mumbai out of the ISPL tournament, registering a 44-run victory in the Eliminator under lights in Surat.
Batting first after losing twice to Mumbai in the group stage, the Tiigers showed clear intent and composure, piling up 124 for 1 in 10 overs. Openers Rajat Mundhe and Saroj Paramanik laid the platform with a brisk start, adding early momentum that Mumbai struggled to contain, as per a release.
Mundhe scored 34 off 24 balls, while Saroj chipped in with a quick 28 off 20, including three maximums.
The innings was taken to another level by Krushna Gawali, who emerged as the standout performer of the match.
Gawali smashed 42 off just 19 deliveries, displaying fearless strokeplay as the Tiigers surged to a total that proved well beyond Mumbai’s reach.
Defending 124, the Tiigers’ bowlers ensured there was no late drama. Arish Khan set the tone with a tight opening spell, claiming three wickets while conceding only six runs.
Mumbai’s chase unraveled completely during the 50:50 over, when Vivek Shelar delivered a decisive blow by taking a hat-trick, effectively ending any hopes of a comeback. Mumbai were bowled out in 9.3 overs.
The victory highlighted a sharp turnaround for the Tiigers, who had narrowly lost both group-stage encounters against the same opponents. This time, discipline with both bat and ball, coupled with sharp fielding, made the difference.
Captain Bhavesh Pawar credited the team’s preparation and clarity of plans, while Man of the Match Krushna Gawali said the side focused on learning from earlier mistakes and executing their strategies under pressure.
The Tiigers of Kolkata will now face Ahmedabad in Qualifier 2 at the Lalbhai Contractor Stadium in Surat later on February 5, with a place in the final at stake.
. VANAAB