Shillong, Nov 18: Led by a brilliant century from Gaurav Narleng (128) and a resolute, unbeaten knock by Angkit “The Rock” Tamang (35 not out), Meghalaya defeated Sikkim by two wickets on a thrilling third day to win their Cooch Behar Trophy 2025-26 plate group match at the MCA Ground here today.
With all three results—Meghalaya win, Sikkim win, or a tie—possible right until the final moments, No. 10 Apandanka Marak sealed victory in style by driving the ball crisply for four, triggering scenes of jubilation as Meghalaya’s players and officials rushed out to celebrate a memorable win.
Chasing 260 for victory, Meghalaya resumed the day on 53/3 and eventually reached the target with eight wickets down in the second session. Earlier, Sikkim were skittled for 76 on Day 1, while Meghalaya managed 108 in their first innings before Sikkim staged a strong comeback with 291 in their second innings.
The hosts were in early trouble today, slipping to 56/4 before losing Heiyoomiki Ryngkhlem (18) to make it 92/5, bringing Angkit to the crease alongside Gaurav.
What followed was a match-defining partnership. Gaurav, on 24 off 22 balls when Angkit arrived, continued to play aggressively while Angkit settled into a solid support role. The duo added a vital 136-run partnership for the sixth wicket, steering Meghalaya close to the target.
Just before lunch, Gaurav survived a crucial dropped catch at deep midwicket on 96, a moment that proved costly for Sikkim, with over 70 runs still needed at that stage. After the break, he completed his century with an aerial shot over mid-on and went on to score a magnificent 128 off 137 balls (17x4s, 2x6s) before falling to part-time spinner Arihanta Sachdeva (1/12) while attempting a sweep.
With Gaurav’s dismissal, Meghalaya needed 32 more runs with four wickets left—all tailenders. Angkit took charge, but the lower order still had to contribute under pressure. Mewankitbok Kharpuri, who top-scored with 34 in the first innings, fell for 2, and although Ashish Kumar Lohar’s 14 tilted the game back in Meghalaya’s favour, he mistimed a big shot and was bowled by Bhavya (2/33) with four runs still required.
Facing the final four balls of Bhavya’s over, Apandanka blocked the first three deliveries. Instead of playing out the last ball to give Angkit the strike, he produced a stunning drive that raced to the boundary—winning the match in spectacular fashion.
At the other end, Angkit remained unbeaten on 35 off 176 balls, a true captain’s knock marked by patience, discipline, and immense composure.
Meghalaya Cricket Association President Nababrata Bhattacharjee lauded the team, saying, “An amazing victory by our U-19 team, reflecting true grit and top-quality fighting spirit and teamwork. This season not only our U-19s but all other categories have shown excellent fighting spirit and resilience. This augurs well for cricket in our state.”
Meghalaya will next travel to Anand, Gujarat, where they will take on Manipur from November 23.
