The TNPL’s PIN code shifting to the State capital brought out the best in the Trichy Grand Cholas batters.
TGC — coming off an abysmal 85-run innings in the 116-run loss to Vida Kovai Kings at Dindigul — racked up 197 for four against Dindigul Dragons at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium here on Wednesday.
The 199-run chase (DLS target) proved too steep for Dragons as their effort ended at 170 for eight in 19 overs.
TGC’s 28-run win was built on the solid 118-run stand between openers K. Rajkumar (71, 42b, 9×4, 3×6) and J. Suresh Kumar (60, 41b, 7×4, 3×6).
After being asked to bat, K. Rajkumar was hitting boundaries for fun before the heavens opened up just 15 minutes and three overs into the match.
The 45-minute delay meant the game was reduced to 19 overs each.
Suresh Kumar, who was trudging along, pressed on the accelerator before being caught in the deep off P. Bhuvaneswaran.
Viju Arul (two for 30) sending back K. Rajkumar and R. Rajkumar briefly halted the run-scoring spree before Jafar Jamal (21, 9b, 3×6) took TGC close to the 200-run mark.
Later, Shivam Singh (47, 28b, 8×4) and B. Indrajith (32, 22b, 4×4, 1×6) kept the game interesting with a 43-ball 73-run stand for the second wicket.
However, once Antony Dhas (three for 25) vindicated himself for dropping Shivam by removing Indrajith and the opener, the DD innings went off the rails.
K. Easwaran (four for 25) then wrapped up a much-needed victory for TGC.