All set for the Grand Finale of UPT20 League

Lucknow: Lucknow, once a city of Nawabs known for its etiquettes and culture, is not new to splendour. As we draw curtains on yet another UPT20 League (Season3), the city has managed to maintain its reputation of being a splendid host. As one steps on to the streets, calmness in the dialect can be found.

Even on the bustling streets of the old town known for its handcrafted products and food, people are unruffled. There is an ease with which Lucknowites interact with you which somehow brings a smile on your face like the famous quote: ‘Smile since you are in Lucknow’ (Muskuraiye aap Lucknow mein hain).

Roam around the streets and you will have more than a few reasons to fall in love with the city and its people. Spend some time with the locals and you will return smiling.

A mere 10 km ride from the vibrant old city takes you to Ekana Cricket Stadium which is hosting the UPT20 league. It is a league that promises to be a launchpad for the upcoming young talent of Uttar Pradesh.

After a hard-fought couple of weeks, Meerut Mavericks and Kashi Rudras have reached the Final which will be played on Saturday, September 6.

The final between the two teams that finished 1-2 after the league stage promises to be a blockbuster with both sides evenly balanced.

The stage is set for the recap of the final of the 1st edition in which Kashi Rudras came out on top. Though Rinku Singh (who joined Indian squad for Asia Cup in Dubai) will be eagerly missed as a player and captain, Meerut Mavericks have shown they can work collectively and get desired results as was emphasised by their captain Madhav Kaushik.

“It would be wrong to say that I am not in the leadership group as I won last year as captain and we were runners-up in the first edition under my captaincy. Moreover, I have been serving as his deputy this season and been in the leadership group. Rinku is a key player and obviously we would have loved to have him but he is on India duty which is a dream for every player. It will give us extra motivation to perform without him and we would like to take this as an opportunity rather than adversity.”

About his personal form he said, “I am not worried over my personal scores as I have done considerably well and as it is a team game, we play according to the demand of the situation.”

Karan Sharma, captain of the Kashi Rudras stated that they started well and then lost a bit of momentum due to unavailability of some key players. However, they managed to click when it mattered and have since regained the momentum and are looking forward to the final.

He further added, “It is always better to have ups and downs in the tournament as it does not let you get in any kind of comfort zone and keeps you on your toes.”

All in all it will be a contest of the two of the most consistent sides of the UPT20 and with both having held the trophy once each, each would be itching to getting their hands on it again.

Tags : UPT20, Kashi Rudras, Meerut Mavericks, Lucknow, Rinku Singh, Madhav Kaushik, Karan Sharma