Batting first, Malappuram Sultans never fully capitalized on their starts. Openers Rameez Abdul Kareem (25 off 14) and captain Rachin Style (12 off 15) tried to build a base but were dismissed just as momentum beckoned. Ryan Rasheed’s patient 25 and Billyas Billu’s cameo offered brief promise before Noushad Noushu turned the heat with a blistering 39 off 19 balls, cracking three fours and three sixes at a strike rate above 200. Dale chipped in with a fighting 30, but wickets fell in clusters. From 126/5 at the 15th over, the innings faltered, finishing at 156/9. The lack of partnerships after Noushu’s departure stalled their charge, leaving them under par against a strong Kings lineup.

Kerala’s bowlers executed their plans with discipline. Jermaine Fernandes picked up two crucial wickets, while Faisal Ahamed’s double strike further dented Malappuram’s resistance. Jafseer Tharammal’s tight lines returned 2/19, including the prized scalp of Noushu, swinging the momentum firmly toward the Kings. Skipper Akhil Mohanan also chipped in, ensuring Malappuram never stitched a meaningful late partnership. Their collective effort restricted the Sultans to a modest target despite the batting bursts from the middle order