27/04/2026
NCL T20 cup match report:
Under a blazing Sunday sun, cricket lovers were treated to pure drama as West Essex CC locked horns with Fearless Lions of West Ham in a thriller that refused to let hearts settle—even for a moment.
Winning the toss and choosing to bat, West Essex CC walked in with confidence, but the innings quickly turned into a battle for survival. The Lions’ bowlers came out breathing fire—tight lines, sharp fielding, and relentless pressure. Just as partnerships threatened to build, wickets tumbled. Despite flashes of resistance, West Essex could only muster 125 for 6 in their 20 overs—a total that felt competitive, yet far from safe.
The bowling heroes for the Lions set the tone early—Shihab and Tahbib chipped in with crucial breakthroughs, but it was Sajib who stole the spotlight with a sensational spell, ripping through the lineup with 4 wickets for just 15 runs. A performance that screamed dominance.
Then came the chase—and what a start it was! Juwel exploded out of the gates, smashing 16 runs in the very first over and instantly shifting the momentum. Ahad added valuable runs, keeping the scoreboard ticking. But just when it seemed like the Lions would cruise, West Essex roared back into the contest with a flurry of wickets, tightening the noose and dragging the game into deep waters.
Enter Shafath.
Calm. Composed. Unshaken.
While chaos unfolded around him, Shafath anchored the innings with a masterclass in pressure batting, crafting a brilliant unbeaten 48*. The match teetered on a knife’s edge as it came down to the final over—14 runs needed.
First ball—BOOM! Shafath launches it into the stands.
The pressure eases… slightly.
With Shihab by his side, the Lions chipped away, collecting 11 runs off the first five balls. Now it all came down to the last delivery. 3 runs needed. One ball. Silence across the field.
The bowler runs in… delivers a full toss on Shihab’s hips—
AND HE SWINGS!
SIX!
Pandemonium erupts. Teammates storm the field. The Fearless Lions of West Ham pull off a sensational victory, finishing on 129 for 6 and clinching their first NCL T20 win in unforgettable fashion.
This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. A triumph of belief, courage, and nerves of steel.
Shafath, for his ice-cool brilliance under pressure, deservedly takes home the Man of the Match award.
Special appreciation to Leon, Jahid, Tarikul, and Gias for their support from the sidelines—it mattered a lot.
And a big congratulations to second team inaugural captain Ahmed Faruqee on leading his side to their first league cup victory—a moment to remember!