By Samuel Peters
In a display of clinical cricket, TG Welding secured their place in the Cool & Smooth MPL Sherma Jackson Joma Business League final with a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over Buck and Sons Landscaping Services in Sunday’s second semi-final showdown.
The match, played under perfect conditions, saw TG Welding’s bowlers dominate from the outset. Their attack, led by the impressive Owen Graham, dismantled Buck and Sons’ batting lineup, restricting them to a mere 24 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their allotted seven overs. It must also be known that Buck and Sons only had eight players.
Graham’s spell proved particularly devastating as he claimed three crucial wickets while conceding just three runs in his economical 1.5 overs. The pressure was maintained at both ends with Deran Benta delivering a masterful spell of two overs, including a maiden over, and picking up a wicket while conceding just a single run. Richie Thomas completed the bowling assault with figures of 2/8 in his two-over spell, effectively shutting down any hopes of a Buck and Sons recovery.
In pursuit of the modest target, Benta, continuing his outstanding all-round performance, anchored the innings with an unbeaten 14 runs, guiding his team to victory with 27/2 in 6.5 overs. His contribution with both bat and ball earned him the well-deserved Player of the Game accolade.
The victory sets up an intriguing final, as TG Welding now await the outcome of the crucial clash between tournament favorites Zamine Shipping, who finished top of the preliminary rounds, and the fifth-placed ABDF, who have shown remarkable resilience throughout the competition.
