Captain Mohammed Azharuddeen’s scintillating innings of 92 runs off just 47 deliveries propelled Alleppey Ripples to a resounding five-wicket victory over Thrissur Titans in the inaugural match of the Kerala Cricket League.
Azharuddeen’s whirlwind knock, which included three boundaries and nine towering sixes, proved to be the catalyst for Alleppey’s triumph. After Thrissur Titans managed a respectable total of 162 runs, Azharuddeen’s explosive batting display turned the tide in Alleppey’s favor.
The Titans’ innings got off to a shaky start, losing a wicket off the very first ball. However, Akshay Manohar’s gritty knock of 57 runs off 44 deliveries provided some stability to the Thrissur outfit.
In response, Alleppey Ripples began their chase cautiously. Azharuddeen, initially circumspect, found his rhythm in the fifth over, smashing two full tosses over the midwicket boundary for sixes. The momentum shifted decisively in Alleppey’s favor as Azharuddeen continued to unleash a barrage of sixes, mostly off the spinners.
Despite Azharuddeen’s heroics, the Titans bowlers managed to keep the Ripples in check, with M.D. Nidheesh claiming two wickets. However, Azharuddeen’s departure with just eight runs needed for victory did not deter Alleppey. Vinoop Manoharan’s 30 runs and a cameo from F. Fanoos ensured a comfortable victory for the Ripples.
