Game 3: Transformers vs Jaguars

This is by far one of the toughest pools in the league with Titans leading the pool without a loss, Peoria XI and Transformers followed with a single loss.  In order for Transformers to have any ray of hope for Super 6's this is a must win situation and if possible win by a HUGE margin(In case when run rate comes into play).

Jaguars won the toss and chose to field.  With both the openers out of the game(Susheel(getting married and is India), Vamshi(Injured Knee)). Captain Papi opened the innings with Bharat to take advantage of the power play and the strategy didn't last long as Papi gave a simple catch to the fielder at long on. Soon followed by Bhargava. With 5 runs on board and 2 wickets down, It was all about steadying the innings. Hemanth and Bharat had a huge responsibility on their shoulders, They played their shots and kept the scoreboard moving at a brisk pace. Bharat continued his form hitting three 4's over the covers in his well played 28. He along with Hemanth(24) and Ravi (16) kept the Transformers back on track.  Transformers yet to see the best from Hemanth!!!. Then comes the Man of the Match Sandeep, Who kept his cool and played gem of an innings, Looking at the run rate after 10 overs, Transformers were eyeing at a score around 100, Sandeep who haven't got a chance to bat in this league, totally changed the mood of the game. The fielders at the boundary couldn't do anything except to watch the ball sailing every time he connects the ball, with five 6's and two 4's he quickly reached 52 and took the transformers to a much needed 132.

Having posted good score on the board, its time for the bowlers to restrict them and register a good win. Bharat bowled well and varied his pace and got the early wickets.  Bhargava took a brilliant running catch to remove the Jaguars captain(May be one of the best catches in the tournament). Bhargav ajoined the party with quick wickets and at one point Jaguars were struggling at 50/5. Bunny came to the crease, didn't bother about the wickets tumbling and enjoyed his batting. He played his shots and kept the transformers on their toes, He hit seven 4's in his 40+ knock, eventually caught by Bharat on long off to a low full toss from Bhargava. Then its all about wrapping up the innings for Transformers. Bharat finished with 4/16, Bhargava 3/22, Papi 1/16,  dismissed the Jaguars for 91 in 15 overs.

BOTTOM LINE: Useful contributions from Bharat, Hemanth, and solid powerful hitting from Sandeep, disciplined bowling and fielding from Transformers are the reasons behind this 40+ run victory.

Last but not the least, wanted to thank Sastry, Sunil and Shankar for staying till the end and supporting their HOME team.