Sachin Baby’s Century Powers Aries Kollam Sailors to KCL Title
Sachin Baby’s masterful century propelled Aries Kollam Sailors to a resounding six-wicket victory over Calicut Globstars in the inaugural edition of the KCL at the Greenfield stadium.
Baby’s unbeaten 105 off 54 deliveries, studded with eight fours and seven sixes, was the cornerstone of the Sailors’ successful chase of 214. His 114-run third-wicket partnership with Vatsal Govind (45) proved decisive in turning the tide in favor of the Sailors.
The Globstars had earlier posted a competitive 213/6, thanks to a blistering start by captain Rohan Kunnummal and a late surge by M. Ajinas. Kunnummal’s 51 off 30 balls, including two sixes, set the tone for the innings, while Ajinas’ 56 off 33 balls, featuring three sixes and a four, provided a late boost.
However, the Sailors’ bowlers, led by leg-spinner Midhun (2/42), kept the Globstars in check, restricting them to just 23 runs in the final three overs.
In the chase, the Sailors lost openers Abhishek Nair and Arun Polouse early, but Baby’s unwavering presence at the crease steadied the innings. He manipulated the field placements with ease, punishing loose deliveries with boundaries and sixes.
Govind provided valuable support, attacking the Globstars spinners and contributing 45 runs. The pair’s partnership laid the foundation for the Sailors’ victory.
Despite the loss of Govind, Baby continued to dominate the bowling, finding boundaries at will. He reached his century with a boundary off Akhil Dev in the 19th over, sparking jubilation among the Sailors’ camp.
The Sailors eventually reached their target with 19.1 overs to spare, securing the inaugural KCL title. Baby’s match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
