Manipur made a landmark impact in its cricketing journey, winning its maiden Championship title of the BCCI Men's U-16 Vijay Merchant Trophy 2023-24 (Plate Group) defeating Meghalaya by an innings and 35 runs in the final match played at Keenan Stadium, Jamshedpur on Friday.
MNCA president Rk Imo Singh heaped lavish praise on the players and support staff, heralding it as an "inspiration on every young cricketer who dares to achieve what is extraordinary".
He added that they have not only created history but also carved a niche for themselves which they will cherish forever. Rk Imo also announced a cash award of Rs 5 lakh for the players and support staff of the winning team.
MNCA secretary L. Ronel Singh labelled the winning team's effort as sheer grit and determination that made all the difference to claim the all important title after getting the full membership of the Board for Control for Cricket in India.
In the final match, Meghalaya's first innings was guided by skipper RS Rathor who made 49 runs to put up 111 runs on board for 10 wickets from 56.4 overs. For Manipur, the pick among the bowlers was Danish who claimed 5 wickets while Naesh got 4 wickets.
In reply, Manipur was unstoppable as Sougaijam led the team with an unbeaten 154 runs to make 293 runs for 10 wickets from 91.2 overs. Meghalaya bowlers A. Marak and AK. Lohar took 3 wickets each.
In the second innings, Meghalaya tried their best with D. Nandi hitting 55 runs to post 147 runs for 10 wickets from 68.2 overs but failed to cross over Manipur first innings score by 35 runs and faced a humiliating innings defeat. Manipur bowler Danish once again shone, bagging 5 wickets while Donba took 3 wickets.
