Akbarally the wind under AIS sail
As soon as the first whistle was blown to start the boys under 14 All Island basketball final at the AIS court recently, the first basket was dropped to give Asian International School two points and they held their lead until the short whistle with 44 points to 35 against rivals Azhar Central College, Akurana. When no time was blown AIS had saved their bacon with 90 points to Azhar Central’s 72.
Taher Akbarally immediately became the corner stone of the AIS team. Around him was built a mansion of 56 goals of 56 points, while the next highest scorer was Vimushka Sannasgama with only eight points in their overall score of 90, while Azhar Central’s 72 points was piled up by Bashith Hilmy 14 points, Naair Nasar 11 and Shamad Tamees eight.
After the change of ends, Azhar Central came out with all their cylinders firing and not only did they draw level with AIS but held a three point lead 63 to 60 at the end of the third quarter.
But fate then dealt a cruel blow on Azhar Central when their skipper and playmaker Bashith Hilmy was sent to the ‘ sin bin’ for five fouls.
In the final quarter, while Asian International piled on 30 points, Azhar Central was able to advance their tally by just nine points.
Taher Akbarally who was adjudged the most valuable player, was the cynosure of all eyed with his excellent court craft, speed dribbling and shooting from any acute angle. Schezan Perera alsoof AIS was the best defensive player, while Nazir Nazir of Azhar Central won the award for the best offensive player.
Finally it must be stated that Azhar Central who took to the game quite recently and with very limited resources, did exceptionally well to each the final despite having to encounter many other schools who are bestowed with all facilities. S. Thomas’ settle for consolation S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia settled for the consolation when they defeated CIS. Colombo by 52 points to 34 in the play off for the third place in the under 14 All Island basketball tournament at the AIS court recently. At half time the Thomiams led CIS by 28 points to 16.
For the Thomians, Vinesh Perera 14 points, Amanda Gunwardena with Thanush Ellawala with 10 points each were the best shooters. While A. Fassahudeen and Rami Rizmi with 10 points each played best for CIS, Colombo.
( BM)