Record-Breaking Performances Dominate Cyprus Cricket Leagues
As the Mediterranean sun cast its warming glow over Cyprus, the cricket pitches turned into run-fest arenas, challenging bowlers and delighting batsmen. The weekend’s cricket action was nothing short of spectacular, with several teams putting up monumental scores that set the grounds abuzz.
At the Ypsonas cricket ground on Saturday, the Black Caps were relentless, amassing a colossal total of 401-4 in the 40 Over league against Telugu 11. The absence of Telugu’s main bowlers was acutely felt as partnerships flourished for the Black Caps. Mangala, with a solid 57, and Sandhu’s impressive 106, which included 21 boundaries, laid a formidable foundation. Chandana and Brar continued the onslaught, both narrowly missing centuries, contributing 98 and 89 runs respectively. Telugu 11 could only muster 212 in response, despite Rajasekhar’s top score of 47, with Pintu taking an impressive 3-21 for the Caps.
Sunday’s T20 league witnessed the Sri Lanka Lions roar to a new Cyprus record 20-over score of 347-4, also at Ypsonas. Kipro Tigers of Limassol, in their season opener, quickly realized the challenge ahead as Akila and Srinath hammered a rapid 122-run partnership. Srinath retired after a whirlwind century from just 40 balls, while Prasad fell just two runs short of his century. The Tigers managed only 126 in reply, handing the Lions a victory margin of 221 runs.
In a more balanced contest, Napa Kings edged out MSN Punjab Lions with a 4-wicket win. Sarabjeet’s bowling figures of 4-43 were instrumental in restricting the Lions to 167. Napa Kings’ chase was anchored by Sanaullah’s half-century and Kamaljit’s unbeaten 65.
Royal also claimed a 4-wicket victory over Cyprus Knight Riders in a match that saw fluctuating fortunes. Despite a slow start, Yeasin’s gritty 48 helped Knight Riders set a target of 137-9. Royal’s captain Sarpreet then stepped up to deliver a match-winning 50.
Limassol Zalmi secured a win against Al Fatah by 30 runs, despite a modest total of 112-8, thanks to their bowlers’ early breakthroughs and Furqan’s tight spell of 3-11.
Limassol Qalandars reached a competitive 180-5 against Limassol Moufflons, propelled by Qasim’s commanding 68. Despite Amir’s economical bowling, Moufflons crumbled to 105 all out, sealing a 75-run win for the Qalandars.
This week, Cyprus welcomes an RAF Development team for several matches, including encounters with British Forces Cyprus and the Cyprus national team. These games are part of Cyprus’s preparation for international matches and an upcoming world cup qualifying tournament.