Shillong: Meghalaya scripted a memorable victory to clinch the 2nd NECDC Senior Women’s Tournament 2025 title, defeating Sikkim in a thrilling finale on Saturday.
The unbeaten champions edged past Sikkim by two wickets with just three balls to spare in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Chasing Sikkim’s competitive 114/4, Meghalaya held their nerve to reach 115/8 in 19.3 overs.
The winning moment came when Riticia Nongbet, under intense pressure, steered a crucial boundary to secure the victory, igniting celebrations among her teammates.
Organized by the North East Cricket Development Council and hosted by the Sikkim Cricket Association, the tournament aims to promote cricket across the Northeast.
Saturday’s final saw standout performances from Meghalaya’s dependable opener, Debasmita Dutta, and wicketkeeper-batter Monica L Phawa.
Debasmita contributed a composed 35 off 41 balls, featuring four boundaries, while Monica’s explosive 37 off 28 balls, with three fours and a towering six, anchored the chase.
However, Meghalaya’s path to victory was far from smooth.
Monica’s dismissal at the end of the 18th over left the team needing 11 runs from 12 balls with only tailenders remaining. Sikkim’s Primula Chettri, who delivered an exceptional spell of 4/28, added to the pressure in the penultimate over, leaving Meghalaya six runs to get in the final over.
Despite an early wicket in the last over, Riticia Nongbet rose to the occasion, dispatching a full toss to fine leg for the winning runs.
Sikkim’s innings earlier was built around contributions from Pretika Chettri (29 off 20) and Priyanka Kurmi (43 off 27). Meghalaya’s bowlers, Debasmita Dutta (1/24) and Monica Singh (1/26), took crucial wickets, while sharp fielding led to two run-outs.
Monica L Phawa was named Player of the Final for her match-winning performance.
Sikkim’s Primula Chettri, with her consistent brilliance, claimed the Player of the Tournament and Top Wicket-taker honours, while teammate Samayita Roy Prodhan emerged as the Top Scorer.
