DC Kathua XI clinches thrilling win over Media XI in high-voltage cricket clash

• Player of the Match DC Rajesh Sharma shines with ball, takes three crucial wickets

KATHUA: In a keenly contested and action-packed friendly cricket match, DC Kathua XI registered a dramatic four-wicket victory over Media XI, turning the contest into an engaging spectacle marked by excitement, competitiveness and camaraderie between the district administration and the media fraternity.

Batting first, Media XI put up a fighting total of 119 runs before being bowled out. Rajkumar and Raman anchored the innings with composed knocks of 21 runs each. The bowling highlight for DC Kathua XI was a disciplined and incisive spell by Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, who claimed three crucial wickets while conceding just 12 runs in his four overs. Aman supported well with an economical spell, taking one wicket for 14 runs, effectively restricting the scoring rate. Chief Planning Officer Ranjit Thakur added brilliance in the field by taking a stunning catch and a crucial run out during the bowling effort of DC Kathua XI.

In reply, DC Kathua XI’s chase gathered momentum through a blistering, match-defining knock by District Information Officer, Rajinder Digra, who smashed 48 runs off just 19 balls, studded with six towering sixes and four boundaries, swinging the contest decisively in favour of his side. Senior officers including GM DIC Mushtaq Chaudhary, ADC Vishavjeet Singh, ACR, Vishav Partap Singh and CEO Municipal Council, Amit Sharma also contributed valuable runs during the chase, lending stability and depth to the batting line-up. Amit Singh chipped in with a useful 19 runs. Despite determined bowling by Media XI, with Rajkumar and Prabu claiming two wickets each, DC Kathua XI crossed the target with four wickets in hand with 47 balls to spare.

Behind the stumps, Pankush Parashar contributed effectively by safely manning the wickets and supporting the bowling and fielding efforts of the team. For his impactful all-round performance and leadership on the field, Rajesh Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Kathua was adjudged Player of the Match.

The thrilling match was played in a vibrant and sporting atmosphere, highlighting the role of sports in strengthening mutual understanding and fostering a positive bond between the district administration and the media fraternity.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma said that such friendly matches are part of the district administration’s sustained efforts to promote sports culture, healthy lifestyles and the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan by encouraging youth to stay engaged in positive and constructive activities.