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AKARTA: Defending “Plate” champions Menara CC and Gandhi CC emerged victorious in their weekend matches at the Apple Coal JCA League 2010-2011.

In Karawaci, Menara defeated Gandhi XI by 37 runs. Gandhi XI’s decision to bowl first in overcast conditions with a wet outfield backfired when Menara openers Rahul Thukral (37) and Deepak Khullar (33) put up a blistering partnership of 74 runs in 14 overs.

Menara’s middle order collapse to 116/8 was the only moment of glory for Gandhi XI, as a fighting ninth wicket partnership of 53 runs between Ajit Prabhu (22) and Sandeep Gaikwad (18) ensured 169 on the board. Mohit Balachandran took 4/35 and Suraj 3/22.

In reply, Gandhi XI was bowled out for 132 runs. Deepak Khullar took 3/15 along with Yogesh Malhotra, Ajit Prabhu and Mohammad Ishaq, each picking up two wickets.

Deepak Khullar and Ajit Prabhu shared the man of the match award for their all around performance. “All the bhai log chipped in and it was a good team effort”, Menara captain Deepak Khullar said.

In the other match at Cibubur, Gandhi CC defeated defending “Cup” champions India XI by 4 wickets in a low scoring game. Sent to bat first, India XI was shot down for a paltry 101, with George making 31 runs. Anil Yadav took 4/24.

Gandhi CC completed the formalities in 21 overs, with Hanan Khalid making 35 runs. Suhail Modak and Dhiraj Nagpal picked up two wickets each. — JP