Sat Feb 22 22:31:17 UTC 2025: **India Masters Edge Out Sri Lanka Masters in Thrilling International Masters League Opener**
Navi Mumbai, India – India Masters secured a thrilling four-run victory over Sri Lanka Masters in the inaugural match of the International Masters League at the DY Patil Sports Academy today. A nail-biting final over, defended brilliantly by Abhimanyu Mithun, saw India Masters hold on despite a late surge from the Sri Lankan batsmen.
India Masters, batting first, posted a challenging 222/4 thanks largely to a blistering 68 off 30 balls from Stuart Binny and a rapid 56 not out from Yusuf Pathan off just 22 deliveries. Yuvraj Singh also contributed a useful 31. Gurkeerat Mann added 44 earlier in the innings.
Sri Lanka’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing Upul Tharanga early. However, Kumar Sangakkara (51) and Jeevan Mendis (41) steadied the ship, followed by a late flourish from Asela Gunaratne (37) and Isuru Udana (23). Irfan Pathan took two crucial wickets, while Sachin Tendulkar’s catch helped dismiss Sangakkara, turning the momentum back towards India.
Despite a late charge that left Sri Lanka needing nine runs from the final over, Mithun held his nerve, securing a memorable win for India Masters in a match full of exciting moments and impressive individual performances. The match showcased the enduring talent of legends like Tendulkar and Sangakkara, alongside the explosive power hitting of younger players.
First Piper 