By Syed Hashmath
JEDDAH — Reliance Fusion9 emerged the 10th edition winners of JPL-Dream India Cup 2017 by beating Challengers CC by 76 runs in the final at Sulemania ground here recently.
The month-long tournament saw 40 teams in ation in a total of 91 matches.
The tournament was sponsored by Dream India Group, a real estate development company from Hyderabad, India. The co-sponsors were Sunshine School from Hyderabad, India, Mahmood Saeed Beverage Industry, Elite Business Group, Paradise Hotel, Parvaz Hotel, Bawarchi Hotel, Khind, Halwani, Fusion9 and Nestle.
The tourney was organized by Jeddah Premier League (JPL) under the auspicious of Saudi Cricket Centre (SCC).
Batting first, Reliance Fusion9 put on a huge total of 248-6 in 16 overs. Usman Ahmed made the fastest century (101 in just 27 deliveries, 4x3, 6x13) and claimed the prestigious Man-of-the-Final award. He was well supported by Babar (27 in 12 balls 4x6). Badruddin from Challengers CC claimed 2 wickets, while Nawaz, Feroz and Basheer got 1 each.
In reply, Challengers CC struggled and were bowled out for 172 in 13.2 overs. Opening bowler Sahil bowled a deadly spell of 2-0-13-3 and Babar 3-0-39-3 to wrest control of the match in Reliance Fusion9’s favor. Harris scored 54 (in 18, 4x4, 6x3) and Feroz Jr. 28 (in 13 4x3, 6x2)
The ground was packed with cricket lovers and graced by the presence of chief guest Syed Rafi Ishaq (Chairman and MD of Dream India Group), Nadeem Nadwi (CEO of SCC), Sadequl Islam (manager, cricket affairs SCC), Dr. Syed Ali (chief advisor, Bazm-e-Ittihad), Mujib (manager, Madina Cricket Club) and Abdul Qadir Siddique (operation manager of Fusion9).
Nadwi, Islam and Syed Hashmath presented the Champions Trophy to Reliance Fusion9 captain Maaz. The runner-up cup was awarded to Challengers CC captain Basheer by Mujib and Dr. Syed Ali.
Individual awards:
Man of the Final — Usman Ahmed (Reliance Fusion9); Player of the Tournament — Masood (Reliance Fusion9); Best Batsman — Harris (Challengers CC); Best Bowler — Badruddin (Challengers CC); Fastest Century — Usman Ahmed (Reliance Fusion9).
Along with JPL trophies, there were plenty of gifts presented to players including LCD’s, smart phones for their meritorious performances.
Closing ceremony started with the recitation of verses from Holy Qur’an by Dr. Syed. Ali and JPL president Syed Hashmath made the presidential speech.
He expressed JPL gratitude to Syed Rafi Ishaq, Nadeem Nadwi, all the sponsors, playing teams, spectators and well wishers for making this event a grand success. Syed Rafi and Nadwi appreciated the finalists and the JPL organizing team for conducting such a successful event within the limitations. He also offered all possible support to JPL for the development of the game in Saudi Arabia. JPL general secretary Mohammed Amer, vice president Syed Mukarram Nazir, event coordinator Aslam Ali Khan, executive members Rahmath, Ehsan, Minhaj, Imran and Talah proposed a vote of thanks to all. Shahed anchored the closing ceremony.
