Two-time champions Kashi Rudras secured a 15-run victory over Gorakhpur Lions in the UP T20 League at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, on Tuesday.
The win marked Kashi Rudras’ second triumph in three matches during their campaign.
Captain Karan Sharma led the performance with an unbeaten 92 runs off 48 balls, which included four fours and nine sixes. After being put into bat, Kashi Rudras posted a total of 194 for six in their 20 overs. Despite a middle-order collapse that saw the team reduced to 88 for five by the 10th over, Sharma’s innings propelled them to a commanding total.
Sahab Yuvraj Singh provided valuable support at the top of the order with a brisk 41 runs from 25 deliveries. Sharma’s late acceleration ensured the team finished strongly.
In response, Gorakhpur Lions were restricted to 179 for seven in their allotted 20 overs. Kashi Rudras’ bowlers maintained pressure throughout the chase, with Vaibhav Chaudhary, Vijay Yadav, and Sunil Kumar each taking two wickets. Karan Sharma also contributed by dismissing Prince Yadav at a crucial stage.
Sharma’s outstanding all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match award and enabled him to reclaim the Orange Cap, having scored 161 runs in three matches. He has won the Orange Cap twice in the first three seasons and currently leads the tournament’s run-scoring charts.
The victory strengthens Kashi Rudras’ title defence as they aim for a third championship. The team will next face Kanpur Superstars on Thursday, August 20, at the Ekana Stadium.