Calicut Sixers Crush Bengaluru Challengers with Mahroof’s Blazing 72
- September 7, 2025
Al Saaf Calicut Sixers stormed to a convincing five-wicket victory over Heavengate and Status Bengaluru Challengers in the Tranquil Developers You Selects IPL 2025 (Exhibition) at DCS You Selects Arena 3. Powered by a breathtaking half-century from Mahroof VK and backed by Mansoor KL’s incisive bowling, the Sixers overhauled the target in just 13 overs.
The Bengaluru Challengers, opting to bat first, never found their rhythm. Their innings folded for 130 in 17.2 overs, undone by poor shot selection and relentless pressure. Nijin Antony was the lone standout, hammering 36 off 19 balls with one four and three sixes at a strike rate of 189. His cameo gave them early momentum, but his run-out in the eighth over derailed the innings.
The Sixers’ bowlers dictated terms. Mansoor KL (4/16) bowled with superb accuracy, using variations to unsettle the batters and claiming key wickets including Ahmed Hashim and Eldhose. He was ably supported by Rameez Nawab (3/32) and Krishnaprasad Kisen (4/28), who shared seven wickets between them. The Challengers’ batting line-up collapsed from 70/3 to 130 all out, handing the Sixers control.
Chasing 131, Calicut Sixers made a shaky start, losing opener Sam for a duck and slipping to 18/3. But the introduction of Mahroof VK turned the match on its head. Walking in at No. 7, Mahroof launched a stunning counterattack, smashing 72 not out from just 35 balls, studded with five fours and seven towering sixes. His strike rate of 205.71 left the Bengaluru bowlers helpless.
Noushad Mohamad (21 not out off 18) provided steady support, rotating the strike while Mahroof went on the offensive. Together, they stitched an unbroken partnership that sealed victory at 132/5 in 13 overs, giving the Sixers a dominant win with 42 balls to spare.
For the Challengers, Krishnaprasad (4/28) tried to keep them in the contest with his four-wicket haul, but without runs on the board, his effort was in vain.
The Sixers’ commanding display underlined their balance—disciplined bowling and explosive batting—making them a force to watch in the exhibition league.
Star of the Match – Mahroof VK
Al Saaf Calicut Sixers
Mahroof delivered a match-winning knock, blasting 72 not out from 35 balls, including five fours and seven sixes. His strike rate of 205.71 turned the chase into a one-sided affair, leaving the bowlers without answers.
Master Blaster – Nijin Antony
Bengaluru Challengers
Nijin Antony top-scored for the Challengers with a blistering 36 off 19 balls, hitting one four and three sixes. His innings lifted their powerplay, but his run-out curtailed their momentum and exposed the middle order.
Power Arm – Mansoor KL
Al Saaf Calicut Sixers
Mansoor’s bowling was the difference, returning 4/16 in four overs at an economy of just 4.00. He dismantled the Challengers’ middle order with lethal accuracy, breaking partnerships and ensuring a modest total.
Safe Hands – Haneef Haizaan
Al Saaf Calicut Sixers
Captain Haneef Haizaan held a crucial catch to dismiss Saleesh Lakshman (13 off 10). His sharp reflexes behind the stumps kept the pressure on the Challengers and showcased the Sixers’ fielding strength.
“Mansoor’s spell turned the game in our favor, and Mahroof’s batting gave us complete control. A real team effort.”
Haneef Haizaan
Captain – Calicut Sixers
“Our batting collapse left us vulnerable. We must regroup, build partnerships, and show more fight to compete against quality sides.”
Richu Musaliar
Captain – Bengaluru Challengers
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