Azher Ali’s Century Powers Riverside to Victory in T20 Championship
In the Connecticut Cricket League T20 Championship 2024, Riverside Cricket Club faced off against Concord Eagles at Keney Park on October 20, 2024. Concord Eagles won the toss and opted to bowl, a decision that allowed Riverside to set an imposing total of 180 runs in their 20 overs.
Riverside’s innings was highlighted by a magnificent century from opener Azher Ali, who smashed 101 runs off just 63 balls, studded with seven boundaries and six sixes. His blistering knock gave Riverside a strong foundation despite early setbacks. Earl Henningham was run out for a mere 1 run, putting Riverside in early trouble. However, Azher’s partnership with Jason Bishram, who contributed 27 off 26 balls, helped stabilize the innings. Jonathan Bonner fell cheaply for 3, but Adil Sardar provided the finishing touches with a quickfire 38* off 20 balls, ensuring Riverside reached a competitive total of 180 for 4 wickets. Concord’s bowlers struggled to contain the runs, with Ashish Massey (2 wickets for 41) and Srikanth Varma (1 wicket for 30) being the only ones among the wickets.
In reply, Concord Eagles’ chase never really took off. Riverside’s bowlers applied consistent pressure from the start. Adil Sardar struck early, bowling Shyam Vadeyar for 2, while Chevon Mclean removed Rachit Sharma for a duck. Faisal Choudary tried to lead a recovery with a steady 37 off 32 balls, but Riverside’s bowlers kept the scoring rate in check. Tyrone Atkinson and Munawar Abbasi made useful contributions of 24 and 30 runs, respectively, but it wasn’t enough to overhaul the target. The Eagles kept losing wickets at crucial moments, with Shannor Douse and Beesham Surujnarine claiming two wickets apiece.
Riverside’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding proved decisive, as Concord Eagles finished their 20 overs at 142 for 7, falling 38 runs short of the target. Adil Sardar was the pick of the bowlers for Riverside, with figures of 4-1-16-1, while Douse and Surujnarine chipped in with two wickets each.
