Red Snappers crowned champions of the 1st Womens Cricket Festival that has taken place in Fuvahmulah after 2 days of non-stop cricket.
Many of the players have only been playing cricket for 2 months and the Cricket Board of Maldives is proud of their development. This Festival was a good opportunity for the players to show what they have learnt.
The Final Match between ‘Red Snappers’ and ‘Iguanas’ went down to the final ball with Iguanas requiring 4 runs to win in their chase of 100 runs to win.
The 15 Over match was played at Fuvahmulah Cricket Stadium and after winning the toss and choosing to bat Red Snappers scored a nervy 99 runs in their innings.
Captain Aima and Aamaal scoring the lions share of the runs with some carefully placed shots and good running between the wickets. The Iguanas star bowlers Zoona and Shadha snapped up 3 wickets each with good line and length bowling.
In reply, the Iguanas lost 3 quick wickets in the first 2 overs with tight bowling from Maayaa and young Alya. With their backs against the wall and still needing 80 runs to win in came the dangerous Zoona and captain Hajja.
The pair batted together until the 15th over and put their team within reach until a chipped shot from Hajja was snatched by Red Snappers captain Aima.
With everyone in the stadium on their feet it was down to 6 runs required from 2 balls! A quick brace was taken and left 4 runs needed off the final ball. Young Alya, brought back for the final over, bowled a wonderful ball just outside off stump that beat the bat and gave victory to the Snappers! Celebrations and commiserations ensued!
A presentation ceremony took place with guest of honour Mr. Bandara of Sierra Company and Mr Naseem an experienced former player in the early years of cricket in the Maldives.
Tournament Awards:
Best Batsman: Khadija Ibrahim (Hajja)
Best Bowler: Shadha
Best Fielder: Shadha and Izma (Shared)
Most Promising Player: Zoona
Player of the Tournament: Khadija Ibrahim (Hajja)
A special momentum was presented to Mr Bandara of Sierra Company for their ongoing assistance to Maldives Cricket.
Womens practices resume every Monday and Wednesday with a match every Friday morning. All are welcome to join!
