Dubai : In a thrilling day of semi-final action at the Pro Cricket League, the stage is set for a captivating final as the Sahgal Delhi Demons and Ghaziabad Bhawani Tigers emerged victorious in their respective matches.
Semi-Final 1: Ghaziabad Bhawani Tigers Defeat Faridabad Sledgehammers Knights by 18 Runs
The first semi-final witnessed the Ghaziabad Bhawani Tigers facing the Faridabad Sledgehammers Knights, who won the toss and chose to field. The Tigers began their innings steadily, with opener Vikas Singh making a valuable contribution of 52 runs off 37 balls. A vital partnership followed as overseas star Peter Trego added 41 runs off 27 balls alongside Prateek Raman, who finished strong with an unbeaten 47 off just 25 deliveries, including 4 sixes. These efforts propelled the Tigers to a competitive total of 183/5.
In reply, the Sledgehammers Knights stumbled early, losing both openers during the powerplay. However, Mahesh Rawat steadied the ship, scoring a composed 66 runs off 53 balls, while Pawan Negi chipped in with a brisk 43 off 27. Despite their efforts, the Sledgehammers fell short, requiring 53 runs from 24 balls when they lost Negi’s wicket, dampening their hopes of a comeback. Hitesh Sharma was the star with the ball for the Tigers, claiming 3 wickets for 24 runs in just 2 overs, earning him the Man of the Match award. The Tigers secured their place in the final with a victory by 18 runs.
Semi-Final 2: Sahgal Delhi Demons Overcome Gurugram Patriots by 6 Wickets
In the second semi-final, the Sahgal Delhi Demons faced the Gurugram Patriots after winning the toss and electing to field. The Patriots struggled early, finding themselves in trouble at 4 wickets down for just 51 runs in the 10th over. Enter Prashant Gurjar, who delivered a sensational performance, scoring an unbeaten 104 runs off just 40 balls, featuring 11 fours and 7 sixes. His explosive knock propelled the Patriots to a respectable total of 201/5.
The Demons faced a similar predicament, losing 4 of their top-order batters during the powerplay. However, captain Phil Mustard stepped up, scoring a brilliant 111 not out off 58 balls, while Shivam Sharma supported him with a quickfire 54 off 32. Their partnership guided the Demons to chase down the target with 13 balls to spare, sealing a 6-wicket victory.
With both teams displaying remarkable resilience and talent, the final promises to be a thrilling encounter as the Sahgal Delhi Demons prepare to take on the Ghaziabad Bhawani Tigers for the coveted Pro Cricket League 2024 title.