In a showcase of pure dominance, South Zone secured their ninth Deodhar Trophy title with an impressive 45-run victory over East Zone in the final held in Puducherry on Thursday.
South Zone’s opening batter, Rohan Kunnummal, stole the limelight with a scintillating century off a mere 75 balls. His breathtaking knock, including four sixes and eleven fours, laid the foundation for South Zone to amass a formidable total of 328 for eight in their allotted overs.
Facing a daunting chase, East Zone encountered early stumbling blocks, finding themselves at 75 for four after 16 overs. The struggles of their top order magnified the challenge ahead.
Although Riyan Parag and Kumar Kushagra put up a valiant fight with a remarkable 105-run partnership for the sixth wicket, their efforts were not enough to overturn the tide.
Parag’s brilliant innings of 95 runs from 65 balls, embellished with eight fours and five sixes, fell agonizingly short of what could have been his third century in the competition.
His dismissal at the hands of Washington Sundar in the 38th over proved to be a turning point, significantly denting East Zone’s hopes of victory.
Kushagra fought fiercely, but his dismissal for 68 runs from 58 balls (comprising six fours and three sixes) dealt a crucial blow to East Zone’s aspirations.
Ultimately, South Zone emerged as the winner as they bowled out East Zone for 283 runs in 46.1 overs, securing a comfortable 45-run win in the final.
With this commanding performance, South Zone reaffirmed their supremacy in the Deodhar Trophy, showcasing their talent and prowess on the cricketing stage.