Sunday’s matches in the 2022 CCA #BAOGroup T20 Cup went some way to clarifying the qualifying positions for the final stages, which will take place next month.
The top two teams in each of the three groups will progress to a Super-6’round to determine the champions.
The top positions in Groups B and C are now settled, with Punjab Lions, Cyprus Moufflons, Sri Lanka Lions and Napa KIngs filling first and second places.
In Group A, Black Caps are assured of the top spot, but two teams still have a chance of grabbing the runners-up position and advancing to the Super-6s.
Waqas Akhtar was the star performer as Riyaan beat Nicosia Fighters, following up his 3-33 by hitting 60, with support from Atta Ullah and Yasir Mehmood, to reach their target with 5 overs to spare.
Abdullah Al Tasmin scored 31 for the Fighters, who as usual gave their opponents a good game, but were not quite able to post a really challenging total.
Riyann now sit in second place, having completed their fixtures, but must wait to see if Markhor can match their points tally by winning their final two games. If they can, Markhor would qualify for the next stage as they won their group match against Riyaan earlier in the season.
A devastating spell of 4 wickets for 9 runs by Rahul Shukla set Amdocs on the way to victory against Limassol Bangladeshis, who were all out for 139.
In reply Amdocs’ Preetoj Deol (47) and skipper Chaitas Shah (33) led the way, and despite Bangladeshis’ captain Anwar Hossain’ 3-17 they achieved the win with two overs and five wickets to spare.
Amdocs will hope to improve their points tally further against bottom team Kings XI Punjab next week, although the Punjabis might scent the possibility of a first win of the season.
Napa Kings secured their Super-6 place with a comprehensive victory over Cyprus Super Kings, who managed just 114-8 in their 20 overs, with only three batsmen managing double figures – Shivaji Korra top-scoring with 33. Napa proved they were the true Kings by knocking off the runs inside 9 overs, with 50 not out for Shah Zeb and 42 for captain Mohamad Ikram.
The remaining game in this group, though it cannot affect the top two positions, will be a keenly awaited local derby between Limassol teams Qalandars and Zalmi, who are level on points and keen to establish bragging rights in the city.