[by Axaya Kansal] In a match filled with suspense, strategy, and sheer determination, the ACC emerged victorious against VRA in a memorable three-day test match that will be remembered for its dramatic finale and exceptional team spirit.
Day 1: A Rain-Delayed Start
The much-anticipated clash began under gloomy skies, with day one washed out due to relentless rain. However, the spirits remained high as both teams made the most of the downtime, engaging in lively socializing and forging camaraderie off the field. This unexpected pause set the stage for an intense battle in the days to come.
Day 2: ACC Sets the Tone
Kicking off day two, VRA won the toss and elected to field first. ACC faced a rocky start, but the innings found stability when Berend played a brilliant half-century, anchoring the team's score. Jan Balk contributed a solid 28 runs, offering a reliable defense before the middle order faltered, leading ACC to a modest total of 120.
VRA's chase began energetically with a quick start, losing their 1st opener in the second over. Krop’s explosive 25 off 32 balls added excitement before getting caught by Richard Wolfe over mid off. The tide turned as Jan Balk took control with his exceptional bowling. Removing H. Singh in his first over, Balk disrupted VRA’s momentum. Together with Lotte, he snatched two more wickets, sending half of VRA's batting lineup back to the pavilion by day's end. VRA went into dinner with a strong position, holding five wickets in hand and a healthy lead, setting the stage for a nail-biting conclusion.
Day 3: The Turning Point
The morning saw a transformed ACC team, brimming with enthusiasm and determination. Captain Ezzat seized the initiative, taking two swift wickets and dismantling VRA’s partnerships. VRA’s first innings were swiftly folded in the first session, highlighted by Lotte’s spectacular catches at point.
When ACC batted again, Berend and Yousaf formed a formidable partnership, adding nearly 100 runs without losing a wicket. Berend's monstrous six and Yousaf's near half-century electrified the crowd, diminishing VRA’s lead and setting a challenging target. Lunch arrived with ACC having lost four quick wickets, but their resilience kept VRA on edge. Sean Ellicott added quick runs to take lead past 100.
In a bold strategic move, as Siddharth Goyal was looking dangerous with bat, Captain Ezzat declared the innings, setting VRA a modest target of 122 runs to chase before tea. ACC’s bowlers rose to the occasion, swiftly removing four quick wickets and putting immense pressure on VRA to save the match.
Final 90 minutes and the last over : A Heart-Stopping Finale
Jan Balk with his exceptional form, dismantled VRA’s lineup by taking three quick wickets post-tea, leaving VRA struggling with just two wickets in hand and less than two hours remaining. The atmosphere was electric, with every ball teetering on the edge of victory or defeat. As the match entered its final 90 minutes, tension soared, and VRA was desperately playing for the draw. The ACC team got a new energy from behind the wicket, where Joost Bakker was throwing himself at everything and boosting the morale.
ACC’s captain made a crucial decision to bring Jan Balk back into the attack, switching bowling ends for Axaya. The decision paid off with Jan removing formidable Prasuk, adding salt to VRA woes. The stage was set for a dramatic conclusion as Axaya began the last over with a two-step run-up, feeling the weight of the moment. The first three deliveries were unremarkable, neither threatening the stumps nor building tension. The fourth ball was a perfectly executed yorker, testing the batsman’s resolve. The fifth delivery was a pivotal moment—a sharp ball struck the batsman's pad, leading to a contentious appeal. The standing umpire turned down the appeal, heightening the drama. With just one ball remaining, the crowd held its breath. Axaya delivered the final ball with precision; Louis Collignon got beaten on his pads and the ball kissed his gloves before it was caught in the second slip.
The final ball of the match decided the fate of the game, a nail-biting finish that epitomized the spirit of cricket. The entire ACC team erupted in celebration, surrounding the field and the jubilant Guy who had held his nerves to catch the ball. This also marked an exceptional personal feat for Axaya who in his debut match clinched 7 wickets with 2 coming from the 1st and last delivery of his spells, coincidently the 1st wicket of 1st innings and the last wicket of the last innings from VRA.
Post-Match Celebrations and Reflections
Jan Balk was rightfully named Man of the Match for his all-round brilliance, claiming six wickets and contributing crucial runs. The ceremony was a heartfelt affair, with both captains sharing laudatory speeches. VRA’s captain handed over the leadership reins to the new generation, signaling a promising future ahead.
The trophy now finds a new home with ACC, celebrating not just a win but the embodiment of teamwork, perseverance, and the purest spirit of cricket. As the crowd dispersed under the evening sky, the echoes of this historic match promised more thrilling encounters in the years to come.
This riveting test match showcased the essence of cricket—where strategy meets passion, and every moment counts. ACC’s triumph is a testament to their collective effort and unwavering determination, marking a significant milestone in their cricketing journey.
