Match Report: 7-Match Series Game 5 - August 6th, 2006
LVCC ends LCRC’s misery as they seal yet another series victory for the summer
Result: LVCC win by 5 wickets (Ankit 4-1-19-3 ); Scorecard
Sunday, August 6th 2006:
Once again, LCRC batting proved to be a great disappointment as they failed to reach triple figures. The Xpress bowling attack was spearheaded by the notorious A’s as both shared a total of three wickets. Dabir, who took a career best 5-wicket haul in game 1 managed to grab a couple of scalps to stay in good contention to receive the “Best Bowler” of the series trophy. The spin combo of Nasir and Ankit was the main highlight of the match as they pressured the batsmen time and time again. Ankit, who is also in contention for the “Best Bowler” trophy is now a wicket behind his teammate Dabir. Ankit’s venomous spin was too good for the LCRC defense as most saw their bails flying in all directions. Catches behind the wickets were close to perfect as Adnan, Xpress’ nimble wicket keeper, took a total of three catches, one of which was off Ankit’s spinning delivery.
The Xpress were a little casual in their chase to 96 runs; and ended losing quick wickets to some decent bowling. LCRC did not want to go down without a fight and it showed as their bowlers kept a clean line and length to trouble their opponents. Xpress varied their line-up and sent Sunny and Adnan in hopes to achieve their total as quickly as possible. That experimentation failed as Sunny got caught napping on the crease. Adnan, who had a good stint with the gloves also showed good form with the bat. Lack of batting practice forced him to play an uppish drive in the hands of Majid for a simple catch. Dabir and Lenin put on a good partnership to save the collapse and managed to do so patiently. Dabir, the highest scorer for the Xpress, was the last wicket to fall due to some lazy running between the wickets. Ankit’s four towards deep fine-leg help secure the win as the Xpress easily chased 95 with 10 overs to spare.
The Xpress have proven their strength all summer long despite playing with 9-players on several occasions. Their victory is a good example of teamwork through great leadership. Lenin was again in the spotlight of the Xpress victory as he led his team in the absence of Avi. LVCC would definitely want to continue their winning streak in game 6 and win the series convincingly. LCRC would want to save face and attempt to win the next couple of games so they can salvage some pride.