Tribune News Network
Doha
The highly anticipated final of the 12th Qatar National Day Cricket Tournament concluded with Doha Rockers securing a thrilling victory over Udupi Cricketers by three wickets at the Qatar Foundation Cricket Ground. The action-packed contest marked the end of an intense month of cricket, featuring some of the best teams in the region.
Udupi Cricketers, having won the toss, opted to bat first and posted a total of 85 for 6 in their 10 overs. Despite a steady start, the team struggled against the disciplined bowling attack of Doha Rockers. Man of the Final Jabir was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets for just 12 runs in his two overs, while Salman also impressed with three wickets, conceding only 16 runs.
In response, Doha Rockers chased down the target in just eight overs, finishing at 86/7. Ismath was the hero of the innings, scoring a crucial 39 off 20 balls, smashing three boundaries and three sixes at a strike rate of 195. Muhammad Irfan and Shafi Ahmed contributed with 17 and 13 runs, respectively. Though Udupi Cricketers’ bowlers, particularly Zahid and Salman, made a strong effort with two and three wickets each, they could not prevent Doha Rockers from clinching the title.
The tournament’s Man of the Series award was presented to Ajmal Khan of CP Boys for his all-round performance, while Sulfan Saleem of Doha Rockers was named Best Batsman and Naseer Khan of CCRC Warriors took home the Best Bowler award.
The winners were honoured with the trophy, individual prizes and a prize of QR10000, while the runners-up also received a trophy besides QR5000.
Top performers were awarded return air tickets to their home destinations, sponsored by Mannai travels, Continental Tourist network and Fahad Travels. The final match witnessed an enthusiastic crowd, with several dignitaries in attendance, including Chief Guest Mustafa Ali Muzaffar (President, CCOB Sports Club).
, Shiraz (Majestic Jewelry), Sudarshan (General Manager, Qatar Industrial Equipment), Ilyas (Manager, Raghda Advertising), Abdul Khudus (General Manager, Continental Tourist), Abdul Bari (Mannai Travels), alongside representatives Omran Hussain (Qatar Cricket Association) and Obaid Tahir (President, Lagaan Cricket Club).
Nafis Hussain (General-Secretary, Lagaan Cricket Club) ensured seamless coordination throughout the event.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Muzaffar Uddin Musharaf, Vice-President of Lagaan Cricket Club, extended his gratitude to Qatar Cricket Association and to all the teams, sponsors, and supporters.
“This tournament is a testament to the love for cricket in Qatar. We are proud to have hosted such an exciting edition and look forward to continuing this tradition next year.”
