VIDARBHA skipper Faiz Fazal helped his Ireland side Lisburn Cricket Club to a thrilling two-wicket win over Instonians in Lagan Valley Steels Twenty20 Cup - 2021. Playing just his second game of the event, the southpaw opener top-scored a well-compiled 45 as Lisburn moved a rung up in the eight-team tournament. Making first use of the turf, Instonians made 138-9 with O Metcalfe making 56. Ireland international Boyd Rankin (2-34), C Atkinson (2-28) and M Berry (2-28) took two wickets each for Lisburn. Faiz played the sheet anchor’s role to perfection as the team reached 142-8 in 19.5 overs. Faiz got support form A Berry (21) and M Humphreys (25).

 

For the losing side, C Robertson (2-25) and B Rose (2-18) were the top bowlers. With four points, Lisburn moved to sixth spot with eight points. Just two games are remaining to be played and it is going to be a tough ask for Lisburn to make the semi-finals. Though, technically it is possible. A day earlier, Lisburn lost to Church of Ireland Young Men’s Society (CIYMS) also by eight wickets. Lisburn’s 131-8 was easily overtaken by CIYMS (132-2) in 14.5 overs. In back to back matches later in the week, Lisburn play Woodvale and North Down.