SRINAGAR: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar J&K delivered an impressive all-round performance to defeat NIT Hamirpur by 23 runs in the finals of All India Inter-NIT Faculty and Staff Cricket Tournament at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Silchar Assam.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss at NIT Silchar Cricket Ground, Silchar, NIT Srinagar J&K posted a competitive total of 138/5. Faisal Irshad led the charge with an unbeaten 52 runs, striking four boundaries and one six. He was supported by Aaqib Sheikh, who smashed a quickfire 16 off just 5 balls, including two boundaries. Sohail Ahmad Baba also contributed 17 runs before being dismissed.
However, NIT Hamirpur bowlers did manage to take key wickets at regular intervals. Manish was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2 wickets for 27 runs in his 3 overs, while Aman Kumar also grabbed 2 wickets, conceding 29 runs. Despite their efforts, NIT Srinagar's total proved challenging.
Chasing 139 to win, NIT Hamirpur struggled to maintain momentum against NIT Srinagar's disciplined bowling attack. Vivek Tiwari (15 off 15) and Neeraj Dhiman (16 off 12) showed some resistance, but they failed to build a big partnership. Captain Surender Soni added 7 runs, while Akash Sharma (15) and Aman Kumar (12) tried to stabilize the innings. However, the required run rate continued to climb.
NIT Srinagar's bowlers performed brilliantly under pressure. Dr Majid Hussain took 2 wickets for 22 runs in his spell, while Mustafa Zargar, Dr Shakeel Waseem, and Dr. Janibul Bashir chipped in with one wicket each. The bowlers effectively restricted NIT Hamirpur to 115/6 in their allotted 15 overs, sealing a convincing 23-run victory.
Faisal Irshad was declared Man of the Match for his vital knock of 52 runs. Aqib Jan emerged as the highest run-scorer for NIT Srinagar in the tournament, while Mustafa Zargar secured the title of the highest wicket-taker for the team. Additionally, Dr Mohsin Shabir was recognized as the most economical bowler of the tournament for NIT Srinagar. The prestigious tournament was hosted by NIT Silchar, with 20 NITs from across India participating in this mega event.
