The Liga BGA Division I matches on May 19, 2024, offered a day filled with thrilling cricket, showcasing impressive performances and close finishes. The three matches played at the Santarém Cricket Ground in Santarém highlighted the competitive nature and high skill levels of the participating teams. Here is a detailed summary of the day's action.

Match 1: Gorkha XI vs. Oeiras CC

The day kicked off with an exciting match between Gorkha XI and Oeiras CC. Oeiras CC won the toss and elected to field. Gorkha XI posted a total of 135 all out in 17.3 overs. The batting was led by Azhar Andani, who scored a brisk 36 off 26 balls, and Manjit Singh, who contributed 26 off 25 balls. Despite these efforts, the team struggled against the disciplined bowling attack of Oeiras CC. Rahul Kumar, Deep Harian, and Gurjeet Singh each took three wickets, with Harian being particularly economical with figures of 4-0-22-3.

In response, Oeiras CC chased down the target in 18.5 overs, scoring 136 for 8. Rahul Kumar was instrumental with the bat, scoring 45 off 42 balls, while Aarav Andharia added a crucial 35 off 30 balls. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Oeiras CC held their nerve to secure a narrow 2-wicket victory. Deep Harian was impressive with the ball for Gorkha XI, taking 3 for 22, and S M Shayaddur Rahman claimed 2 for 17, but their efforts were not enough to prevent Oeiras CC from clinching the win.

Match 2: Gamblers SC-A vs. Lisbon Capitals CC

The second match featured Gamblers SC-A taking on Lisbon Capitals CC. Lisbon Capitals won the toss and opted to field first. Gamblers SC-A set a challenging total of 178 for 9 in their 20 overs. Ankush Kamboj played a standout innings, scoring a quickfire 71 off 39 balls, including 13 fours. He was supported by Ranjit, who added 23 off 19 balls. The bowling for Lisbon Capitals was led by Rahul Hudda, who took 4 wickets for 20 runs, and Samarth Patel, who picked up 3 wickets for 30 runs.

Chasing 179, Lisbon Capitals CC fell short, managing 161 for 5 in their 20 overs. Samarth Patel was the top scorer with 43 off 26 balls, and Amir Dar contributed 37 off 26 balls. Despite their efforts, the target proved to be just out of reach. Ankush Kamboj was also effective with the ball, taking 2 for 29, and Nitin Kamboj chipped in with a wicket. This all-round performance by Gamblers SC-A secured them a 17-run victory.

Match 3: Malo CC vs. Fighters CC(BGA)

The final match of the day saw Malo CC facing Fighters CC(BGA). Fighters CC(BGA) won the toss and opted to field. Malo CC posted a total of 179 for 9 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Roushan Singh, who scored a solid 65 off 44 balls, and Imran Khan, who added 38 off 27 balls. However, they struggled to maintain momentum against the Fighters' bowling attack. Parminderjeet Singh and Mandeep Singh took two wickets each, with Singh being particularly economical, conceding only 23 runs in his 4 overs.

Fighters CC(BGA) chased down the target with ease, reaching 183 for 4 in just 16.4 overs. Dalwinder Gullu played a spectacular innings, remaining unbeaten on 99 off 62 balls, hitting 15 fours and 3 sixes. He was well-supported by Gursewak Singh, who scored 29 off 17 balls, and Mandeep Mall, who added 31 off 17 balls. Despite efforts from Malo CC's bowlers, who struggled to contain the scoring rate, Fighters CC(BGA) cruised to a comfortable 6-wicket victory.

Conclusion

The matches on May 19, 2024, in the Liga BGA Division I were a testament to the high level of competition and skill in the league. Oeiras CC's narrow victory over Gorkha XI highlighted their resilience under pressure. Gamblers SC-A's solid performance against Lisbon Capitals CC showcased their all-round capabilities. Fighters CC(BGA)'s dominant chase against Malo CC demonstrated their batting prowess and composure. These matches not only provided thrilling entertainment for the fans but also set the stage for an exciting continuation of the league as the season progresses.