ISPL Season: Bengaluru and Ahmedabad delivered composed performances to register important victories in their respective matches during the Indian Street Premier League Season 3 at the Lalbhai Contractor Stadium, highlighting the growing competitiveness of the tournament and reshaping the points table ahead of the upcoming fixtures.
Bengaluru Strikers finally opened their account in Season 3 with a four-wicket win over Chennai Singams in a tense, low-scoring contest. Chasing a modest target, Bengaluru displayed patience and composure to reach the required total with seven balls remaining, marking a confidence-boosting victory after a challenging start to the campaign.
Asked to bat first, Chennai struggled to build momentum against a disciplined bowling unit. The innings revolved around a gritty knock from Jagannath Sarkar, who anchored one end and scored 32 runs from 28 deliveries. Despite his resistance, the lack of support from the middle order proved costly as wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, preventing Chennai from posting a competitive total.
Bengaluru’s bowlers maintained tight lines and applied constant pressure. Vijay Kumar emerged as the standout performer, conceding very few runs while claiming two crucial wickets. He was ably supported by Badi Rajesh Narayan and Bhushan Gole, whose economical spells restricted Chennai to just 57 runs in their allotted overs. The controlled bowling effort laid the foundation for Bengaluru’s successful chase.
The chase began positively with a quick contribution from Fardeen Kazi, giving Bengaluru early momentum. Although wickets fell during the middle phase, Sumeet Dhekale ensured there was no late drama by holding the innings together with an unbeaten knock. Chennai’s bowlers attempted a comeback, but the target proved too small to defend as Bengaluru crossed the line comfortably.
Earlier in the day, Ahmedabad Lions showcased a clinical bowling display to defend their total against Delhi Superheros. Despite posting only 74 runs, Ahmedabad’s disciplined approach with the ball turned the match decisively in their favor.
Batting first, Ahmedabad faced early setbacks as their top order failed to convert starts. Sanjay Kanojjiya provided stability with a vital innings of 34 runs, striking cleanly and finding the boundary when required. His contribution proved crucial in pushing the team to a defendable score, even as wickets continued to tumble around him.
Delhi’s chase never gained momentum due to an outstanding spell from Zaid Khan, who dismantled the batting lineup with four quick wickets. His early breakthroughs left Delhi reeling, and despite brief resistance from Prathamesh Pawar and Padmesh Mhatre, partnerships failed to develop. Consistent support from the rest of the Ahmedabad bowling unit ensured there was no escape for Delhi.
With this victory, Ahmedabad Lions moved to the top of the standings, strengthening their position as early title contenders. Bengaluru’s win also keeps them in contention as the season progresses. The action continues with Tiigers of Kolkata set to face Majhi Mumbai, followed by Bengaluru Strikers taking on Srinagar Ke Veer in the next round of matches.
