Chicago CC Storms into National Cricket League Final with 15-Run Win
In a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter of the National Cricket League, Chicago CC emerged victorious over Los Angeles Waves (LAW) by 15 runs, securing their place in the tournament final.
Chasing a challenging target of 168, LAW’s batting lineup faltered, with Karthik Gattepalli’s impressive bowling figures of 3/30 proving too much to overcome. The Waves slumped to 152/6 in 10 overs, falling short of the required total.
Chicago’s innings was ignited by a blistering knock from Chris Lynn, who smashed a quickfire 69 off just 28 deliveries. Lynn’s innings, which included seven fours and six sixes, set the tone for Chicago’s aggressive approach.
Robin Uthappa, Chicago’s captain, provided a brisk start with a 31-run cameo off 11 balls. Leonardo Julien joined Lynn in a 97-run partnership for the second wicket, contributing 33 off 14 balls.
Despite the dismissals of Lynn and Julien, Sohail Tanvir’s unbeaten 17 off 4 balls propelled Chicago’s total to 167/6. Rishi Rames claimed two wickets for LAW, while Tim David and Tymal Mills also chipped in with a scalp each.
In response, LAW’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing Tim David on the first ball. Joe Burns and Stephen Eskinazi failed to make significant contributions, leaving LAW struggling at 40/3 within the first three overs.
Waqas Saleem and Ramesh attempted to revive LAW’s innings with a 63-run partnership for the fourth wicket. However, their dismissals in quick succession left LAW in a precarious position.
Rumman Raees and Todd Astle provided some late resistance with unbeaten cameos of 26 and 19, respectively. But Gattepalli’s three wickets, along with two from Simon Harmer and one from Tanvir, proved decisive as LAW fell short by 15 runs.
With this victory, Chicago CC has secured a berth in the final. LAW, on the other hand, will have to navigate Qualifier 2 to earn a rematch with Chicago in the summit clash.