Ajman: Unique Strikers Bhatkal beat ANIB XI on Top Mysore Royals by six wickets to enter the finals of Globelink West Star Shipping LLC Mangaluru Premier League (MPL) at the Ajman Oval ground Stadium, UAE on Thursday.

In what was a thriller of a match, Unique Strikers held their nerves to conquer the semi-final at the Oval Stadium in Ajman.

Vikrant Shetty (63*) and Istihaque (49) sailed Unique Strikers boat to go past the modest total of 141 runs set by ANIB XI on Top Mysore Royals in 17.5 overs.  

Together, Vikrant and Istihaque worked a partnership of 97 runs for the third wicket. Vikrant Shetty blasted unbeaten 63 off 42 balls with eight fours and a six, while Istihaque scored 49 off 39 balls with 8 fours.

After having dismissed Vijay (5), Afzan (0) and Ubada (0) early, ANIB XI on Top Mysore Royals never really fired off in the rest of the overs.

With each bowler conceding heavy runs in their spell, ANIB XI on Top Mysore Royals bowling line-up didn’t performed up to the mark.

Earlier batting first, a good start by the batsman, excellent running between the wickets and a blast of a knock by Mahesh Shetty (38) and Mohammed Safwan Shanu (23) propelled ANIB XI on Top Mysore Royals to 140 for 8 in 20 overs.

Vikrant Shetty bowled well and bagged three wickets for Bhatkal.

Brief Scores:

ANIB XI on Top Mysore Royals: 140/8 in 20 overs (Mahesh Shetty 38, Safwan shanu 23, Vikrant Shetty 34).

Unique Strikers Bhatkal: 144/4 in 17.5 overs (Vikrant Shetty 63*, Istihaque 49)