Swamibapa A storms to T20 League title, crushes Sir Ali A by 10 wickets
- Created by Jeff Olubuyi
- Sports Extra
Swamibapa A received Sh50,000 as champions, while runners-up Sir Ali A earned Sh25,000.
Swamibapa A capped off a dominant campaign in the Nairobi County Cricket Association (NCCA) T20 League with a commanding 10-wicket victory over Sir Ali A at Ruaraka Ground, Nairobi, retaining their T20 crown in emphatic fashion.
After Sir Ali A won the toss and chose to bat, they were bundled out for just 88 runs in 17.2 overs. Kenyan veteran Shem Ngoche delivered a match-winning spell, claiming four crucial wickets to dismantle the batting lineup and restrict them to a below-par total.
In response, Swamibapa A produced a flawless chase. Openers Dhwanil Patel (56 off 47 balls) and Pankaj Sanghani (30 off 35) put together an unbeaten partnership, guiding their side to 88 without losing a wicket and sealing the championship in style.
Captain Sachin Gill praised his team’s discipline and resilience. After topping the league table but suffering disappointment in the first qualifier, Gill said the squad remained confident heading into the final. “Our plan was simple — bowl in good areas, stay disciplined, and keep things tight,” he said. “The boys executed perfectly.” Reflecting on the chase, he added that composure and responsibility were key, noting the satisfaction of finishing the tournament on a high. Gill also credited younger players for stepping up amid injuries to key batters.
NCCA chairman Kanti Rabadia announced unprecedented cash rewards despite the absence of sponsors. Swamibapa A received Sh50,000 as champions, while runners-up Sir Ali A earned Sh25,000. Individual awards, each worth Sh5,000, were also presented. Irfan Karim was named Best Batter with 430 runs, while SCLPS A’s Sachin Siyani took Best Bowler honors with 16 wickets. Dhwanil Patel earned Best Fielder/Wicketkeeper, and Sir Ali A’s Faraz Ahmed was named Most Valuable Player. Committee member Prasad sponsored the Man of the Match and Upcoming Player awards, won by Shem Ngoche and Swamibapa’s Paresh Kerai, respectively.
In Division One action, Kanbis B defeated Sir Ali B by 33 runs to reach the final. Sir Ali B will face SCLPS B in Qualifier 2 after SCLPS B beat Legends CC A in the eliminator.
Following the successful T20 league, NCCA will launch the 40-Over Super Division Knockouts next week. Hon. Secretary Narendra “NK” Patel expressed excitement for the upcoming competition, promising more intense cricket as teams battle for top honours.