In the third match of TNPL 2023, played between Siechem Madurai Panthers (SMP) and Nellai Royal Kings (NRK) at the SNR College Cricket Ground, NRK emerged victorious by six wickets.
SMP won the toss and elected to bat first. However, their batters struggled to gain momentum as they could post just 126-8 in their allocated 20 overs.
Hari Nishanth was the standout performer for the Panthers, with 64 runs off 51 deliveries, including 4 fours and 3 sixes. Washington Sundar contributed 19 runs, while Swapnil Singh chipped in with a quickfire 14 off 10 deliveries.
The Kings’ bowlers put up a disciplined effort, with Sonu Yadav and M Poiyamozhi picking up two wickets each to restrict the Panthers’ scoring opportunities.
Chasing a target of 127, NRK showcased an excellent batting display, reaching the target comfortably in just 13.4 overs with six wickets in hand. Nidhish Rajagopal was the top-scorer with 42 off just 26 deliveries, including 4 sixes and 1 four. Arun Karthik also made a significant contribution with a quickfire 32 off 12 balls, including 4 fours and 2 sixes.
Nellai Royal Kings registered a thumping win over Siechem Madurai Panthers: https://t.co/7WFgO1GVWH#cricket #TNPL #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/BMVF22Buwl
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) June 14, 2023
S Mohan Prasath played a crucial role, both with the ball and the bat, and was named the Player of the Match for his all-round performance.
On fire💥#TNPL2023🏏#smpvsnrk#TNPLonstarsports#TNPLonfancode#NammaAatamAarambam💥#NammaOoruNammaGethu💪🏼 pic.twitter.com/8JOwILF0Su
— TNPL (@TNPremierLeague) June 14, 2023
“It’s important to take wickets in key moments, handle pressure and execute well. Certain balls held onto the pitch, the captain trusted me and I did well. When I tried to flight I did get help. I usually bowl quicker through the air,” said Prasath in the post-match presentation ceremony.