Maharashtra Tycoons defend 192 to secure a win against Rajasthan Lions

Goa, January 28: Game three of the World Legends Pro T20 League unfolded in a nail-biting finish, with the Maharashtra Tycoons making a statement on their first appearance of the season. Packing their playing XI with star power, the Tycoons featured the likes of Sir Alastair Cook, Chris Gayle, and Shaun Marsh, setting the stage for a high-profile encounter. Batting first, the Tycoons posted a challenging total of 193 runs, which their bowling line-up then beautifully defended, helping the team secure an 8-run victory over the Rajasthan Lions despite a late surge by Abhimanyu Mithun.

The Lions ensured the contest lived up to its billing, fielding a strong lineup that included Eoin Morgan, Ben Cutting, and J P Duminy, turning the clash into a true blockbuster.

With fans around the world tuned in, the Tycoons provided early entertainment as hard-hitting Chris Gayle joined forces with the ever-composed Sir Alastair Cook. Power met poise as the opening pair raced to a rapid 45-run partnership, laying a solid foundation. The momentum was maintained by Shaun Marsh and Stuart Binny, who kept the scoreboard moving with a confident stand.

The Lions struggled throughout their innings, with early wickets putting pressure on the middle order. Suresh Raina, introduced as the Impact Player, lasted only briefly, while Angelo Perera and Ben Cutting offered some resistance. Carlos Brathwaite led the Tycoons’ bowling with three wickets, ensuring control and a comfortable finish.

In the first game of the day, Gurugram Thunders batted first after winning the toss and posted 159 for 5 in 20 overs, led by Ross Taylor’s 41 off 36 and Mohammad Faiz Khan’s 35 off 27, despite early strikes from Pune Panthers’ Samiullah Shinwari (2/42 in 3 overs). Chasing the target, Pune Panthers suffered an early loss of captain Shane Watson but roared back with Martin Guptill’s explosive 68 off 28 balls, anchoring a 72-run partnership and steering the team to a four-wicket win in 17 overs, with support from Sayed Shirzad Shinwari’s 21 off 10 and Stuart Broad’s economical 1/11 in 2 overs.