Despite Zeeshan’s hat-trick CAL lose

LUCKNOW: Varanasi Cricket Association marched into the semi-finals of the 4th JKP Trophy State Cricket Tournament, registering a thrilling three-wicket win against local outfits Cricket Association Lucknow, at the Ekana International Cricket Stadium here on Tuesday.

Sambhu Yadav took four wickets, whereas Samshul Huda and Divya Prakash Singh shared four wickets between them to see CAL scoring 196 in 40 overs.

Later, Ashish Singh’s run-a ball 72 with the help of seven fours and three sixes, and Ashish Yadav’s unbeaten 53 in 65 balls ensured VCA romp home in 37.2 overs. Former Youth World Cupper Zeeshan Ansari took four wickets, including a hat-trick, but to no avail.

CRICKET TRIALS

Cricket Association Lucknow would be conducting under-16 and under-19 trials here from April 8 to 13. Players registered with UPCA/CAL are eligible to participate, states CAL’s director KM Khan.

CENTURY KNOCK

Arif struck 83-ball 120, which contained 19 fours and a six as Gulmohar Cricket Academy defeated Manchester Club by 198 runs in CAL’s C division league, at the Northern Railway Stadium here on Tuesday. Central Cricket Club beat Hindustan Fire Club by 196 runs, and Naqvi Sporting beat IPRK Cricket Club by 161 runs in other matches of the day.

AD HOC COACHES

Unlike in the past, when a delay in start of annual coaching system was routine affair, the Uttar Pradesh Sports Directorate this time, acted promptly and appointed 321 ad hoc coaches across the state in different disciplines.

FINE SHOW

Uttar Pradesh judokas won eight medals, including two gold, two silver and four bronzes at the nationals.