RESERVE Bank of India (B) men and Union Bank of India (B) women emerged champions in Bankers’ Sports Council’s Cricket Tournament at Sharad Bhake Cricket Academy ground, the other day. In men’s final, RBI defeated Bank of India by three wickets while Union Bank of India women beat Bank of India (B) by five wickets. The tournament witnessed exciting matches and enthusiastic participation from bank employees in both men and women sections. The tournament was conducted with excellent co-ordination and competitive spirit, drawing appreciation from all participating teams. The tournament was organised under the able guidance of Ramesh Thakur, President, Ravi Joshi, Secretary, Prafulla Nandedkar, Vice-President, Chandrakant Manke, Joint Secretary and Mangesh Puranik, Organising Secretary, who ensured smooth conduct of the event. Special appreciation was also extended to Paresh Sutane, the brainchild behind introducing box cricket tournament, whose initiative added a fresh and vibrant sporting format for bankers.

 

RESULTS Women’s Section: Semi-finals: Bank of India (B) defeated Union Bank of India (A) by 3 wickets. UBI(A) scored 54-3 in 6 overs, while BOI(B) chased it successfully with 55-3 in 5.4 overs. Rupali (BOI) played a match-winning knock of 32 runs*; Union Bank of India (B) outplayed Bank of India (A) by 31 runs. UBI(B) posted a massive 101-5 in 6 overs, powered by an outstanding 67 runs by Pinky Dongre. BOI(A) were bowled out for 70 in 6 overs. Final: Union Bank of India (B) beat Bank of India (B) by 5 wickets. BOI (B) were bundled out for 47 in 6 overs, while UBI(B) comfortably chased the target scoring 49-1 in 3 overs. Pinky Dongre once again starred with 30 runs*, playing a crucial role in the title win. Men’s Section: Semi-finals: Reserve Bank of India (B) defeated State Bank of India (C) by 4 wickets. SBI(C) scored 72-4 in 6 overs, while RBI(B) chased it with ease scoring 73-2 in 3.4 overs. Ashish (RBI) remained unbeaten on 29*; Bank of India (B) edged past Bank of India (A) by 8 runs. BOI(B) scored an imposing 124-1 in 6 overs, with Ashish scoring 39 runs. BOI(A) fought hard but were all out for 116 in 6 overs. Final: RBI (B) defeated Bank of India (B) by 3 wickets. BOI(B) scored 122 all out in 6 overs, but RBI(B) chased the target in 5.5 overs. Ashish (RBI) played a sensational unbeaten knock of 47* to guide his team to a thrilling victory.