Nagaland defeated Sikkim by 114 runs in their group stage match at the 1st NE Little Masters Trophy 2025, played at the ACA Stadium Ground in Barsapara, Guwahati. A solid batting performance, followed by clinical bowling, ensured that Nagaland marked their first win of the tournament in style.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Nagaland posted a modest total of 172/7 in 40 overs. Sangtsulen Tshunherii played a key role in stabilizing the innings, contributing 38 runs off 103 balls. Ayan Shaikh supported with a handy knock of 22 runs from 32 balls. Sikkim’s Raunak Yadav was the most effective bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 21 runs in 8 overs, maintaining constant pressure on the Nagaland batsmen.
In response, Sikkim’s chase was derailed by tight bowling from Nagaland. The team was bowled out for a meager 58 runs in just 19 overs. Raunak Yadav’s resilient 17* off 49 balls was the only bright spot for Sikkim, but he received little support from the rest of the batting lineup.
Nagaland’s bowlers dominated the proceedings, with Yuhemba leading the charge with 4 wickets for 26 runs in 6 overs. Eric Rupreo’s brilliant spell of 2/6 in 5 overs dismantled Sikkim’s middle order, earning him the Player of the Match award.
With the win, Nagaland heads into their next fixture against Tripura, scheduled for April 25, 2025, at 9:00 AM at the ACA CA Ground in Fulung, North Guwahati.