The first week of the Senior Masters League-2 (SML-2) kicked off with three thrilling matches, with Lhomthi Sporting Club (LSC), Chumu Blasters (CB), and defending champions Essa Warriors (EW) emerging victorious.
The first match was played between Kohima Old Boys and Lhomthi Sporting Club (LSC) on October 26, with LSC securing the first win.
The first match for the second day was played between Chumu Blasters (CB) and Nzon CC.
Chumu Blasters showcased a strong batting display, setting a competitive target of 180/9 in 20 overs. Nsamyibe led the scoreboard with 62 off 43 balls, while Bovika Yeptho added a quick 36 off 21. On the bowling front, Jabu Semy and Momo Tungoe made impactful contributions, taking 3 and 2 wickets, respectively.
In reply, Nzon CC, making their league debut, struggled to chase the total, managing 128/8 in 20 overs. Kenendi Among made the top score for his club with 33 off 35 balls, while Neingu Neikha added 29 off 26 balls.
Moalong and Kezhangutuo Zhotso dominated the bowling attack for the Blasters, with 4 and 2 wickets respectively, sealing a comfortable victory for Chumu.
The second March for day 2 was played between Kohima Legends (KL) and Essa Warriors (EW).
Kohima Legends set a decent target with 155/8 in 20 overs, with Viketho Kechii scoring 33 off 26 balls and Tapito contributing a rapid 29 off 14.
Essa Warriors’ bowlers, including Alongba Pongen, Aoshashi, and Michael, claimed 3, 2, and 2 wickets, respectively, keeping the Legends’s in check.
In response, Essa Warriors demonstrated their defending champion form by chasing down the target with ease, scoring 157/3 in 18.5 overs. Pankaj Ghosh shone with a remarkable 83 off 55 balls, and Rakesh chipped in with a swift 28 off 18.
The Legend’s bowlers, led by Keviselhou Sekhose and Kehtholetuo Solo with 2 and 1 wickets, couldn’t restrict the determined Essa Warriors, who secured a well-earned victory.