NIMACC’s first XI produced an excellent all-round performance to secure a convincing 72-run victory over the Drumaness Superkings first XI in their NCU Senior League Section 3 fixture on Saturday, ending Drumaness’s winning streak.
The match marked a memorable occasion for 14-year-old Riley Tubman, who made his debut for the Superkings. Tubman hit five runs (including one four) and fielded superbly.
After being put under pressure early in their innings by the opening bowlers, NIMACC recovered well to post 129 all out in 27.4 overs. The visitors found themselves in trouble at 52 for seven, but a determined lower-order fightback helped rescue the innings. Benny Varughese anchored the recovery with an unbeaten 27, while Hafis Siyad contributed 24 and Benshak Chirayath added a valuable 17.
Extras also played a significant role, contributing 28 runs to the total. For Drumaness, Darren Oldroyd was the pick of the bowlers with three for 29, while Garry Walsh and Eoin Gelston each claimed two wickets.
Defending a modest target, NIMACC’s bowlers produced a superb display. Drumaness never recovered from a series of early wickets and were dismissed for just 57 in 18.3 overs. Baby Varughese led the attack magnificently, claiming five for 24 from 7.3 overs, including three maidens. He received excellent support from Byshal Varughese (2 for 8) and Byjo Varughese (3 for 20), as the visitors dismantled the Drumaness batting line-up.
Only Darren Oldroyd (17) and Zaheer Gondal (12) reached double figures for the home side as wickets fell regularly throughout the chase.
