Match Report: 7-Match Series - August 27th, 2006
Vamsi’s maiden half-century was not enough as LCRC fall short of a win
Result: LVCC won by 5 runs (Vamsi 50 ); Scorecard
Sunday, August 27th 2006:
LCRC came out in full strength, but fell short of 5 runs to end the series on a slightly positive note. The Xpress batting failed them once more, but their bowling attack was venomous as ever and they secured a hard fought win.
The Xpress won the toss and decided to bat on a freakishly pleasant morning. Arvin and Sunny were tested again as the opening pair, but failed as they fell victims to some tight bowling by Pasindu and Shanta. Arvin, who showed good technique in game 6 showed great resistance to some swing bowling. His short stint gave some indication that he’s a thinking batsman, but lack of experience again let him down as he got caught off some good bowling from Shanta. The top-order faced another collapse and yet again the middle-order came to the Xpress’ rescue. Lenin and Anupam put on a patient partnership before falling victims to the bowling of Vamsi and Pasindu. Ankit tried to take some charge in the lower-order but ran out of partners and was stranded on 13 off 5 deliveries. The Xpress ending total was helped by the extras as LCRC sprayed 30 wide deliveries for the innings.
The Xpress did not help their cause in the second half either as they too found difficulty controlling wide deliveries, but found reprieve in the form of wickets when they gained control of their line and length.. The notorious A’s bowling duo applied some good pressure in their spell and found success by getting key wickets. The spin attack for the Xpress found success later in the innings as they discovered a good turning track to bowl on. The spin duo managed to get half the batsmen out while bowling in tandem. Vamsi, the lone ranger for LCRC showed excellent resistance and managed to get a maiden half-century. Unfortunately, he did not get support from any of his teammates and had to take charge in the end. LCRC needed almost a run-a-ball in the final over, but smart bowling by Anupam created the added pressure as Vamsi was forced to go for big hits. The match looked to be in LCRC’s grip when Vamsi tried to finish it off in style by hitting Anupam off the park. The ball skied forever but came down to Jahangir at long on, who cupped it beautifully, helping Xpress win the series 5-2. Ankit took full advantage of Dabir’s absence and helped his cause in winning the “Best Bowler” trophy.
The Xpress camp was extremely joyous with the win and will definitely be confident going into the winter league season starting next week (September 10th). LVCC does not have a good record in league play but with the series wins, their confidence will be soaring as they look forward to win their forthcoming matches. On the other hand, the Lankans can go out on a slightly positive note as their players showed hints of a fighting spirit especially after being demoralized by excellent seam and spin bowling earlier in the series. At the start of the league, LCRC will be missing the presence of Vamsi and Bala as they were moonlighting for the Lankans before the start of the league play. It will be interesting to see LCRC’s performance after losing their two performing players in the series.