Image: Haryana clinched a 7-wicket victory over Himachal Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy / © Times Now News
The Group C in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has been getting interesting as Haryana defeated Himachal Pradesh by seven wickets in a closely contested match at Wankhede Stadium. Himachal batted first, scoring 152/7 in their 20 overs. Skipper Rishi Dhawan led from the front with a quickfire 42 off 30 balls, supported by Mani Sharma’s steady 53 off 44 deliveries.
However, Haryana’s bowlers, particularly Anshul Kamboj (3/26) and Sumit Kumar (2/27), ensured the target remained within reach. In response, Haryana chased down the 153-run target in 19.2 overs, finishing at 154/3. Yuvraj Singh was the star of the chase, hammering an unbeaten 82 off just 56 balls, including seven boundaries and three sixes. Nishant Sindhu added a patient 27, while Rahul Tewatia provided the finishing touch with 10 not out off seven balls.
This victory propelled Haryana to fourth place in the Group C standings with 12 points, keeping their qualification hopes alive. Himachal, meanwhile, struggled to find consistency, sitting sixth with just 8 points from six matches. As the group stage heats up, Haryana’s balanced performance with bat and ball has set the stage for a thrilling finish in the race for the knockout spots.