By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Jun 14, 2025 14:37 PM • 142 views
In a commanding display of youthful prowess and disciplined cricket, Madhesh Province clinched the TB Shah Memorial U-16 National One-Day Cricket Tournament title on Saturday, outclassing Bagmati Province by seven wickets at the Kalinchowk Cricket Ground in Birendranagar. Chasing a modest target of 113, Madhesh made light work of the run pursuit, wrapping up the contest in just 13.4 overs while losing only three wickets — a performance that not only sealed the trophy but underscored their growing dominance at the grassroots level.
Mandal, Mukhiya Lead the Chase
Opening the innings with positive intent, Madhesh's top-order showed maturity beyond their years. Santu Mandal played the role of a finisher to perfection, anchoring the innings with a composed and unbeaten 43, while Ayan Mukhiya remained not out on 29, ensuring there were no hiccups along the way. Sushant Singh chipped in with a brisk 12, and by the time the third wicket fell, the result had already swung decisively in Madhesh's favour. Bagmati's bowlers, led by skipper Prasidh JC, who picked up two wickets, struggled to contain the flow of runs. Kamal Sahi added one scalp, but the lack of early breakthroughs allowed Madhesh to dictate the tempo.
Bagmati Collapse Under Pressure
Earlier in the day, Bagmati's decision to bat first after losing the toss proved costly. They were bundled out for just 112 runs in 33 overs, never quite recovering from a series of early jolts. Captain Prasidh JC tried to steady the innings with a fighting 25, supported by Rohit Thakur (22) and Ashish Gupta (17), but the inability to form substantial partnerships hurt their total. Madhesh's bowlers showcased exceptional discipline and variety. Rohan Yadav led the attack with a fiery spell, bagging 3 wickets, while Rajeev Kumar Sada and Salman Ali Mansoori delivered crucial breakthroughs, claiming two wickets each. Their collective effort ensured Bagmati never got a foothold in the match.
# A Title Earned, A Statement Made
With this victory, Madhesh Province has not only lifted the coveted TB Shah Memorial U-16 trophy but also sent a clear message about the depth and promise of their young cricketing talent. Their blend of aggressive batting, clinical bowling, and astute captaincy has been a hallmark throughout the tournament — and Saturday's win was the perfect culmination of that form. As the sun set over Kalinchowk and medals were draped around proud shoulders, the rising stars from Madhesh walked off the field not just as champions but as torchbearers of the province's cricketing future.
