CRICKET – INDIAN School Bahrain (ISB) lifted the Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF) Inter-School Cup 2025 with a dominant nine-wicket win over New Millennium School (NMS) in the final.
In a stunning display of power-hitting, captain M Basil Abdul Hakkim’s explosive century dismantled the opposition, leading his team to chase down 176 with over four overs remaining.
The match unfolded on a batsman-friendly pitch, where NMS – after winning the toss and electing to bat – posted a respectable 175/2 in 20 overs. Captain Sai Vaddiraju anchored the innings with an unbeaten 105 off 68 balls, supported by an opening partnership of 142 runs with Shubham Subodh Lele (44).
However, ISB’s disciplined bowling, including economical spells from Basil (4-0-23-0) and Ayan Khan (3-0-19-1), restricted NMS from reaching a higher total.
ISB’s response was ruthless, reaching 176/1 in just 15.4 overs. Basil led the charge with a breathtaking 102 off 48 balls, featuring nine fours and five sixes at a strike-rate of 212.50. He forged a match-winning 160-run stand with Aashish Sadashiva, who remained unbeaten on 49. Basil was run out in the 15th over, but Ranveer Ram (14 off eight balls) sealed the victory shortly after. Basil’s heroics earned him the Player of the Finale award, while Sai was named Player of the Series and Best Batter with 395 runs. Suneesh took home Best Bowler honours with six wickets.
BCF chairman Mohammed Mansoor congratulated the teams during the awards presentation, stressing the importance of youth development.
“Winning is just one part of the journey,” he said. “We urge parents to encourage their children as they are the future of Bahrain.”
Mansoor outlined plans to elevate school tournaments into vibrant carnivals, with increased parental involvement, open selection trials, the ICC CRIIIO civic cricket programme, and a strong emphasis on women’s cricket to foster broader participation. Other dignitaries in attendance included BCF president Sami Ali, ISB sports EC member Dr Mohammed Faizal, along with board officials and coaches.
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