Chandigarh, Tailender Jagjit Singh Sandhu struck a crucial boundary off the second-last ball to seal a thrilling three-wicket victory for Chandigarh over Baroda in the first encounter of Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy Elite group at Mumbai on Saturday.
Chasing 149, Chandigarh appeared to be heading for a tense finish after losing wickets at regular intervals but held their nerve to reach 149 for seven in 19.5 overs. Sandhu remained unbeaten on 10 off just four balls including two boundaries to provide the decisive finish.
Earlier, the foundation for the chase was laid by skipper Shivam Bhambri who played a crucial innings of 45 studded with four boundaries and kept Chandigarh in the hunt through the middle overs. Bhambri’s partnership with Aarush Bhandari (26) helped Chandigarh to recover from a tricky position. During the chase, Manan Vohra (14), Arjun Azad (26) and Sanyam Saini (15) made useful contributions before Bhambri took charge
Earlier, Baroda posted 148/6 after being invited to bat. Shivalik Sharma (45) was the top scorer while captain Krunal Pandya remained unbeaten on 40. Bhanu Pania provided late impetus with a 19-run cameo off just seven deliveries.
Chiragvir Dhindsa was particularly impressive by conceding just 11 runs in his four overs and taking one wicket while Bhagmender Lather fetched two wickets.
