Canada takes the Sushil Nadkarni International Trophy home !

SN2 The weather cooperated, after heavy rain in previous weeks made for an anxious time. Like snowbirds to Florida the Canadian cricket team flew into Houston, Texas for an unknown adventure, hosted by Sakhi Muhammed.

Except for any threat of rain however, the organizing committee was confident this innovative event would go well, with Sakhi Muhammad’s plan and resources having the tireless Amir Sadiqque to execute and coordinate logistics, with assistance from Lloyd Jodah.

Canada won the first 2 matches, with the 2nd going to the last ball for an exciting finish.For a while it seemed as though Smart Choice would take the victory but tight bowling by Canada, particularly by Ryerson University’s bowling sensation, Nikhil Dutta, claimed the victory for Canada.

In the 3rd game Smart Choice, captained by Majid Rizvi won the toss, and elected to bat. Though they lost an early wicket Ricardo Powell (37 in 31 balls) and Usman Rafiq (27 in 34) put on 50 runs,setting Smart Choice up nicely for a big score.Nikhil Dutta (Ryerson) came on, and was promptly swung to square leg for 4 by Powell. But the next ball Powell was deceived by Dutta and caught behind by wicket keeper Srimanta Wejereratne. Dutta then proved too much and ran through the batting like Usain Bolt in a 100 metres race. Amir Sadiqque came too late, but smashed a 6, and a delightful cut for 4 in 11* as Smart Choice was all out in19.4 for 131. Dutta took 6 for 26, with his fast off spin American College Cricket players will remember from the 2013 & 2014 North East Regionals, and the National Championship.

The Smart Choice bowlers and fielders defended their low total like it was the Alamo, and it took Canada’s Bradman, 6’4 Ruvindu Gunasekera making the smart choice to be the rock of the innings, for 58* off 49 balls with just 4 fours & 2 sixes but on a 6 and 4 came at the end to seal the victory for Canada.

The Presentation followed, mc’d by Tournament Chairman Lloyd Jodah (American College Cricket Founder & President).

The Sushil Nadkarni International Series Man of the Match Awards in each game went to Canadian players:

1- Rizwan Cheema

The Canada team, with Sakhi, Sushil, Lloyd & umpire Danny Khan

The Canada team, with Sakhi, Sushil, Lloyd & umpire Danny Khan

2 – Hamza Tariq
3 – Nikhil Dutta (Ryerson)

Sushil Nadkarni International Series
Top Batsman : Srimantha Wejereratne
Top Bowler : Nikhil Dutta (Ryerson)

Some delightful snippets of acceptance speeches were made :

Tournament Honoree Sushil Nadkarni was lauded by Sakhi for his career starting as an Under 19 player in India to his appearances for, and contribution to USA cricket, including his work with Katy Youth cricket. Lloyd quoted Shoaib Akhtar who said :”Inspiration is important. Talent always follows heroes.” and praised Sakhi for honoring a Houston and USA cricket hero, Sushil, saying by highlighting our local cricket heroes it would give kids cricket athletes to emulate.
Sushil himself expressed how moved he was by being so honored – it would always be a special moment for him. Sushil recently retired from International cricket, but was one of USA Cricket’s top performers and an epitome of of the “Spirit of Cricket.”

Gorgeous Trophies selected by Amir Sadiqque were presented to the officials of the Canadian team as well, Manager Manzoor Chaudhary, Head Coach Mukesh Narula, and Heath Spence (Physio) for their role in ensuring the Series was a success.
Canadian Captain Rizwan Cheema and the Canadian officials were all lavish in their praise for Sakhi Muhammad’s vision, commitment and hospitality and for Moosa Stadium itself. Cheema, who has played around the world, said Moosa Stadium was on par with other first class fields he has played on.
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The Canadians also expressed the highest appreciation for Amir Sadiqque’s role in pulling together the parts of the puzzle, and his stewardship of the team whilst in Houston. Lloyd added,
“Every day when I spoke with Amir in the lead up to this event, late at night or early in the morning, he was living this event, trying to ensure it followed through on Sakhi’s vision. Whether it was the placement of the Banners around the field, the cars/hotels for Canadian team,the inscriptions on the Awards, every detail was covered to ensure the event was worthy of the honoree, Sushil and the architect, Sakhi. 
It was immensely satisfying to hear the appreciation of the Canadian team for the inaugural Sushil Nadkarni International Series.”
Photos by Shaz, Amir & Lloyd will be posted on Facebook on the American Pro Cricket & Smart Choice pages, as well as Sakhi,Lloyd, & Amir’s FB profiles

 

Posted by ljodah | NEWS

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