Batting first, Al Saaf Calicut Sixers got off to a solid start, with Rajesh Raghavan (34 off 23) and Mohd Yasir Nasir (33 off 28) laying the foundation. The duo’s crisp strokeplay through the off-side set a strong tone, but the introduction of Pratham Mahale’s sharp pace disrupted their rhythm. Wickets fell in quick succession, and from a strong 90/2, the Sixers stumbled to 130/6. However, their innings found new life through Rameez Nawab, who played a breathtaking knock of 55 off just 24 balls, smashing sixes that sailed deep into the Sharjah night. His cameo, supported by Umair M.T.’s 28 off 15, helped the Sixers reach a competitive 189/9 at the close of innings.

In response, Autodeal MCC Mangalore Masters showcased a masterclass in chasing. Openers Asim Shaikh and Farzuk Yusuf began positively, threading gaps with ease and punishing anything loose. While Farzuk’s 38 off 22 provided momentum, it was Asim’s sheer domination that turned the game on its head. The right-hander’s 102 off 53 deliveries was a spectacle of timing and temperament—an innings laced with 15 fours and 4 towering sixes. The Sixers’ bowlers tried every trick, but Asim’s clean hitting and impeccable shot selection made the target look smaller with every over.