A stunning unbeaten knock from Sanika Chalke powered Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburb to a convincing eight-wicket victory over Thane Sky Risers in the semifinal of the inaugural Nuvama Private T20 Mumbai Women’s League at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday.
Chasing a target of 114, the Tigers comfortably reached 117/2 in just 15 overs. Sanika starred with a brilliant 74 not out off 51 balls, smashing 11 fours and two sixes in a match-winning display. After early wickets of Humairaa Kaazi and Sejal Raut left the Tigers at 35/2, Sanika joined forces with Fatima Jaffar to steer the innings home. The duo added an unbeaten 82-run partnership for the third wicket, with Fatima contributing a steady 35 not out.
Earlier, Aakash Tigers produced a disciplined bowling performance after opting to field first. Thane Sky Risers were restricted to 113/9 in their 20 overs, with Vruushali Bhagat top-scoring with 32, while Mansi Patil and skipper Khushi Bhatia added 25 and 21 respectively.
Manali Dakshini and Batul Pereira led the Tigers’ bowling effort with two wickets each, ensuring the Risers never gained momentum.
With the win, Aakash Tigers MWS booked their place in Saturday’s final, where they will face SOBO Mumbai Falcons at the Wankhede Stadium. :::
