Kashmir Cup 2025: JK XI Shopian snatch dramatic 2-run win over Sultan Warriors Baramulla in last-ball nail-biter

Srinagar, Aug 12: In a heart-pounding Kashmir Cup 2025 league clash that went down to the wire, JK Xi Shopian defended their massive total to edge out Sultan Warriors Baramulla by a mere 2 runs on the final delivery at TRC Ground on Tuesday.

This edge-of-the-seat thriller, the second match of the day, captivated fans as the contest swung dramatically in the closing overs, with boundaries and wickets keeping everyone guessing until the very last ball. What a game it was!

As per a statement issued, electing to bat after winning the toss, JK Xi Shopian piled on 230/9 in 20 overs, with a scintillating captain's knock from Adil Kachroo, who smashed 94 off 44 balls with 7 fours and 6 sixes at a strike rate of 213.64. Junaid Mushtaq (31 off 20) and Aasif Manzoor (29 off 13) provided solid support, while Adil Wani's explosive 27 off 8 balls added late fireworks. Sultan Warriors Baramulla's bowlers fought back valiantly, with captain Nadeem Dar claiming 3/33, Asim Bashir taking 3/51, and Salman securing 2/33.

Chasing 231, Sultan Warriors Baramulla mounted a fierce comeback, finishing agonisingly short at 228/7. Asim Bashir anchored with 62 off 36 (9 fours, 2 sixes), Zeeshan Ali blazed 49 off 19 (6 fours, 3 sixes), and Zahoor Xolo contributed 43 off 26. Nadeem Dar's late blitz of 38 off 16 (1 four, 5 sixes) nearly stole the show, but JK Xi's bowlers held their nerve. Mohsin (2/42) and others chipped in, with key wickets in the death overs sealing the deal on the final ball.

In the day's earlier fixture at the same venue, Sultan Warriors Sumerbugh delivered another exciting performance, overcoming Royal Goodwill Cricket Club by 17 runs to strengthen their campaign.

Batting first after losing the toss, Sultan Warriors posted 131/9 in 20 overs. Sajid Dar played a blistering unbeaten knock of 40 off 20 balls, smashing three fours and three sixes at a strike rate of 200. Inam (32 off 38) provided stability at the top.

Royal Goodwill’s bowling was led by Khan Ussama, who claimed 3 wickets for 21 runs, while captain Ishtiyak Rasool and Rithik Singh picked up two and one wicket, respectively.