• Irfan Pathan’s last over heroics helped Konark Suryas Odisha beat Manipur Tigers by 2 runs.

  • Pathan for his all-round excellence was also adjudged the Player of the Match in the LLC 2024 game.

LLC 2024 [WATCH]: Irfan Pathan defends the clutch over in a thrilling match against Manipal Tigers
Irfan Pathan defends the clutch over in a thrilling match against Manipal Tigers (Image source: X)

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In an exhilarating start to the third season of Legends League Cricket (LLC), Konark Suryas Odisha (KSO) secured a nail-biting victory over the defending champions, Manipal Tigers (MT). The match, held at the Barkatullah Khan Stadium, showcased a dramatic finish as KSO clinched a two-run win, despite posting a modest total of 104 runs for nine wickets.

Irfan Pathan defends in a nail-biting finish

The match unfolded with KSO, stepping in for Bhilwara Kings this season, holding their composure until the very last ball. Skipper Irfan Pathan, who had previously captained the Kings, took on the responsibility of bowling the final over. Despite a shaky start that included a wide and a six hit by Anureet Singh, Pathan managed to regain control. He conceded only three singles in the next four deliveries and ultimately dismissed Obus Pienaar with a stunning catch by Ambati Rayudu at the midwicket boundary, sealing a memorable victory for his team.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2024 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Venue, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

Manipal Tigers’ fightback in the match

Credit must be given to the Manipal Tigers for their spirited fightback from a precarious position. After losing their first five batters for just 21 runs, including ducks from openers Robin Uthappa and Solomon Mire, they found themselves in dire straits at 38 for six. However, Australian all-rounder Daniel Christian and South African Pienaar revived their innings with a crucial partnership of 49 runs for the seventh wicket. Christian scored 30 runs while Pienaar contributed 34, bringing hope back to the Tigers’ camp.

Pathan’s all-round heroics for Konark Suryas Odisha

While Pathan’s final over was pivotal, it was Sri Lanka’s Dilshan Munaweera who shone with the ball for KSO, recording impressive figures of 2 wickets for just 11 runs in three overs. Earlier in the innings, Pathan also top-scored for his team with 18 runs off 23 balls. KSO’s innings began positively but faltered mid-way as they struggled to maintain momentum after losing wickets rapidly.

Other struggles and contributions to ponder over

KSO’s innings saw them reach 64 for seven before some late contributions helped them post a total above 100. Naveen Stewart’s quickfire 17 and R Vinay Kumar’s unbeaten 11 were crucial in pushing their score to 104. The team faced pressure from the Tigers’ bowlers but managed to scrape through thanks to a vital partnership between Stewart and New Zealand legend Ross Taylor.

As the excitement of LLC continues, India Capitals will face Toyam Hyderabad in the second match of the season on Saturday at the same venue. With high stakes and thrilling cricket on display, fans can expect more exhilarating encounters as the tournament progresses. This season promises to deliver more nail-biting finishes and remarkable performances from cricketing legends as they take to the field once again.

Also READ: Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2024 Squads: Players list and Captains of all six teams

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.