Mumbai, June 1: Eagle Thane Strikers began their Mumbai T20 League 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, registering a commanding nine-wicket victory over Bandra Blasters in the tournament opener at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday.
Asked to bat first, Bandra Blasters posted a competitive 189/9 in their 20 overs. However, the Strikers’ bowlers kept the opposition in check throughout the innings. Captain Shardul Thakur, who has represented India in 85 international matches, led from the front with figures of 2/33, while Onkar Tukaram Tarmale impressed with 3/28. Atharva Ankolekar also chipped in with two wickets to restrict Bandra below the 200-run mark.
Chasing 190, Eagle Thane Strikers came out with aggressive intent and seized control of the contest during a breathtaking powerplay. Openers Shashwat Jagtap and Sumeir Zaveri tore into the Bandra bowling attack, racing to 93 runs in the first six overs and putting the chase firmly under control.
Jagtap stole the show with a magnificent unbeaten 100 off 50 balls, smashing 14 fours and three sixes. He received excellent support from Zaveri, who hammered 80 off just 36 deliveries, including 11 boundaries and four sixes. The duo stitched together a match-winning opening partnership that left the Bandra bowlers with no answers.
After Zaveri’s dismissal, Sairaj Patil joined Jagtap to complete the chase as Eagle Thane Strikers cruised to 194/1 in just 15.2 overs, winning with 28 balls to spare.
Having made a strong statement in their opening game, Eagle Thane Strikers will now look to carry the momentum into their next fixture against Aakash Tigers MWS on June 3.
