Ahammed Imran hits maiden century of KCL Season 2, guide Thrissur to 9-run victory over Calicut

Ahammed Imran of Thrissur Titans registered the first century of the second edition of the Kerala Cricket League on Saturday. Helped by his milestone, Thrissur defeated Calicut Globstars by nine runs in a closely contested match at the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.

Opening the innings for Thrissur Titans, Ahmmed Imran stayed at the crease until the 18th over and departed shortly after reaching his century. His knock, a well-deserved 100 off just 55 balls, included five sixes and 11 boundaries.

Powered by Imran’s valour, the Titans posted a commanding total of 209/5, the highest team score of the KCL second edition season so far. Calicut fought valiantly till the end to reach the target; however, they fell short after making the second-highest team total this season. 

The Titans had an early setback when opener Anand Krishnan fell for just 7 runs. However, Imran and Shoun Roger stabilised the innings with a vital 75-run partnership for the second wicket. Shoun was bowled by Monu Krishna in the 11th over after scoring a solid 35.

Akshay Manohar then joined Imran at the crease, and the pair added another 61 runs, with Manohar contributing 22 before being dismissed. Imran followed shortly after reaching his century, with Akhil Scaria claiming his wicket.

Arjun AK, who remained unbeaten on 24, ensured that the Titans crossed the 200-run mark.

Chasing the mammoth target, Calicut didn’t get the dream start they had hoped for. Their top order crumbled under pressure from M D Nidheesh, who claimed the first three wickets with the team at just 41 runs.

But M Ajnas and Salman Nizar steadied the innings and kept Calicut’s hopes alive with a solid 98-run partnership. Ajnas was dismissed in the 14th over after scoring 58, and with little support from the rest of the batting lineup, Nizar too fell shortly after for a well-made 77, despite taking his team close to victory.

In the final two overs, the Titans bowlers held their nerve and tightened their grip, eventually restricting Calicut to 200.