The DLSW Strikers ended the year on a high with a comprehensive victory, showcasing their all-round capabilities. After winning the toss, HKUCC opted to bat first. Openers Krishna Kothandaraman and Nitesh Hemlani provided a steady start, but the momentum shifted dramatically in the 5th over when Manu Mishra struck twice first Nitesh was caught behind and Tiran Ranasinghe was brilliantly run out by Manu without scoring, leaving HKUCC in early trouble at 28/2.

Despite regular wickets falling at one end, Krishna Kothandaraman held firm at the other. He not only managed to play freely but also ensured he played safely, contributing the bulk of the runs. The scoreboard read 39/3 and then 62/4, with most of the runs coming from Krishna’s bat.

Wickets continued to tumble from one end, but Krishna seemed to be playing on a different pitch. He continued to play freely and brought up his fifty, with HKUCC at 104/5. The majority of the runs were coming from Krishna alone. Amit, Keerthi, Mangal, and Lahiru all chipped in with a wicket each, but it was Manu Mishra who stood out as the bowler with figures of 4 for 31 and a run-out to his name. Krishna notched up his century and ended up with 116 runs, while none of the other batters contributed significantly. HKUCC finished their innings at 178/9 in 35 overs.

In reply, the Strikers lost Bagri early with the score at just 6. However, Vishal and Kapil steadied the ship, bringing the score to 35 before Kapil was caught out. Lahiru joined Vishal, and the scoreboard moved up slowly. Regular wickets meant the match was hanging in the balance.

It was then Mangal Rana and Manu Mishra who put up a solid 7th wicket partnership to bring the team home in the 30th over. Mangal scored 44 runs, while Manu remained not out on 26* ,Harold ensured no further wickets were lost as they reached the target in the 30th over for the loss of 6 wickets.

Manu Mishra was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance with both ball and bat. Mangal also played a key role in the win. With this victory, the Strikers moved up the points table and are currently sitting in 2nd position.