At 15 years, Rahul Yadav becomes Bal Bhavan Dwarka's star in Raghubir cricket final

New Delhi: Rahul Yadav, all of 15 years, produced a match-winning all-round performance as Bal Bhavan Dwarka defeated Noida Wonders by 34 runs in a thrilling final to lift the 49th All India Lala Raghubir Singh Hot Weather Prize Money Cricket Tournament at the Modern School grounds, Barakhamba Road.

Batting first, Bal Bhavan Dwarka posted a challenging 306 in 38.4 overs on the back of useful contributions throughout the batting order. Dev Lakra led the charge with a well-crafted 58, while Himanshu Rana chipped in with 45. Dhruv Singh added 43 runs, Rahul Yadav scored a valuable 37, and Yash Bhatia contributed 30 as Bal Bhavan crossed the 300-run mark.

In reply, Noida Wonders fought hard but were bowled out for 272 in 37.1 overs. The highlight of their chase was a breathtaking knock by Priyanshu Pandey, who smashed 107 off just 44 deliveries, striking nine fours and ten sixes. Gagan Vats made 35, while Harsh Tyagi added 28, but the target ultimately proved beyond their reach.

Rahul Yadav then completed a memorable performance with his left-arm spin, claiming three wickets for 42 runs to derail Noida Wonders' chase. Dev Lakra also made an impact with two wickets as Bal Bhavan maintained control despite Priyanshu's explosive century.

For his decisive contribution with both bat and ball, Rahul Yadav was named Player of the Match.

At the conclusion of the tournament, Priyanshu Pandey of Noida Wonders was adjudged the Best Batsman, while teammate Harshit Sethi received the Best Bowler award. Bal Bhavan Dwarka's Yajas R. Sharma was named Best All-Rounder of the Tournament.

The prize distribution ceremony was attended by DDCA President Rohan Jaitley, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest and presented the trophies and awards. Tournament champions Bal Bhavan Dwarka received a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh along with the winner's trophy and bags, while runners-up Noida Wanderers were awarded Rs 1.5 lakh, the runners-up trophy, and bags.

Among the other distinguished guests present were Ravindra Manchanda, Mukul Mudgal, Chairman of Modern School and Vijay Datta, who congratulated the players and organisers on the successful conduct of the prestigious tournament.

Tags : Cricket, Delhi, Rahul Yadav, Priyanshu Pandey, Dev Lakra, Harshit Sethi, Yajas Sharma