NONGPOH, Feb 12: The Inter Village Cricket Tournament organised by Seng Samla Umran Niangbyrnai in Ri Bhoi District concluded on Tuesday with a thrilling final that saw Umsohlang edge past Umran Dairy in a dramatic finish.
The tournament, which featured participation from 23 teams across the district, culminated in an exciting championship clash between Umran Dairy and Umsohlang.
Opting to bat first, Umran Dairy posted a competitive total of 90 runs in 20 overs, setting a challenging target for Umsohlang in the summit clash. The final proved to be a closely fought encounter, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the match.
Chasing 90, Umsohlang faced mounting pressure in the closing stages. In a nail-biting finish, the team required four runs off the final ball of the last over. Amid loud cheers and tense moments from supporters on both sides, the Umsohlang batsman rose to the occasion, smashing a six off the final delivery to seal victory by three runs and claim the championship title.
The dramatic last-ball finish sparked jubilant celebrations among Umsohlang players and supporters, marking a memorable conclusion to the tournament.
During the prize distribution ceremony, individual awards were presented to outstanding performers. Liban Son Majaw was named Man of the Match, while Wallam Kharbihthai received the Man of the Tournament award for his consistent performance throughout the competition.
Former MDC of Umsning Constituency, Bah Donkupar Sumer, attended the closing ceremony as chief guest. He was joined by Rangbah Shnong of Umran Niangbyrnai, Bah Stephan Kharbani, President of the Seng Longkmie, Kong Lucia Wahlang, Secretary Kong Youlinda Kharbani, and other community leaders.
In his address, Bah Donkupar Sumer lauded the youth organisation of Umran Niangbyrnai for successfully organising the tournament and promoting sportsmanship in the region. He encouraged organisers to consider introducing red-ball cricket in future editions to align with formats played at higher competitive levels in the country. He also urged young players to form a cricket association in the Umsning area to ensure the sustained development and annual organisation of the sport in the region.
