Gopal’s Power Show, Shiyad’s Fireworks – Gwalior Knights Storm Past Bengaluru in Style
- October 6, 2025
At the Tranquil Developers You Selects IPL 2025 Exhibition League match at DCS You Selects Arena, Sharjah, Imex Cargo TFS Gwalior Knights outplayed Heavengate & Status Bengaluru Challengers by seven wickets. The Sunday afternoon clash on October 5 was a run-fest, featuring explosive hitting, sharp bowling, and top-tier cricketing entertainment.
Chasing 173 under the blazing Sharjah sun, the Gwalior Knights began with intent. Openers Anil Velappan and Bagee Gopal stitched a fluent 56-run stand before Velappan fell for a brisk 37 off 29 balls, striking six boundaries. Gopal, however, took center stage with his power-packed 45 off just 23 deliveries, hammering five sixes that sent fielders on a leather hunt. His attacking display set the perfect tone, keeping the required rate well under control.
After Gopal’s departure, Shiyad Meleveetill played an innings to remember — a sensational 56* off 23 balls at an astonishing strike rate of 243. He punished anything loose, finding gaps effortlessly and clearing the ropes with ease. Supported by Shafeek Blacky’s calm 22*, Shiyad finished the game in style, steering the Knights home in 16.4 overs with seven wickets to spare. It was a chase executed with composure and dominance, epitomizing modern T20 batting at its best.
Earlier, Bengaluru Challengers opted to bat first after winning the toss and posted a competitive 172/8 in 20 overs. Nijin Antony anchored the innings with a classy 59 off 46 balls, mixing elegant drives with calculated aggression. His knock held the innings together even as wickets tumbled around him. Sanoj Abdu’s fiery cameo — 23 off just nine balls — gave the innings early momentum, while skipper Richu Musaliar and Saleesh Lakshman chipped in with quick runs in the middle overs.
However, disciplined bowling from Gwalior, led by Dhiyan’s crucial three-wicket burst and Bagee Gopal’s tight lines (2/20 in 4 overs), applied the brakes effectively. The Bengaluru batters found it hard to maintain acceleration in the death overs, eventually settling for a total that looked strong but proved short against the Knights’ red-hot form.
Star of the Match – Bagee Gopal
Imex Cargo TFS Gwalior Knights
A dazzling all-round display — smashing 45 off 23 balls and claiming two wickets with precision. His performance turned the tide and sealed Gwalior’s dominance.
Master Blaster – Shiyad Meleveetill
Imex Cargo TFS Gwalior Knights
An explosive 56* from 23 balls — pure T20 entertainment. Shiyad’s knock decimated the opposition, finishing the chase with elegance and brute force combined.
Power Arm – Bibin
Bengaluru Challengers
Maintained pressure with tight spells and energy in the field. His pace and accuracy gave Bengaluru moments of control during an otherwise tough outing.
Safe Hands – Ajith CS
Imex Cargo TFS Gwalior Knights
Fielded with razor-sharp anticipation, clutching two vital catches that throttled Bengaluru’s middle-order surge. His safe hands and electric presence made him a defensive pillar for Gwalior.
“The boys showed brilliant intent — everyone knew their role and executed it perfectly. We’re enjoying our cricket and the results are showing.”
Dhiyan
Captain – Imex Cargo TFS Gwalior Knights
“We started well but couldn’t capitalize during the death overs. Gwalior batted superbly — plenty to learn and come back stronger.”
Richu Musaliar
Captain – Bengaluru Challengers
Recent
- Asim’s Ton, Pratham’s Precision—Mangalore Masters Maul Calicut Sixers Under the Sharjah Lights
- Aditya Anchors, Abhijith Blazes – Deccan Strikers Down Kochi Kingsmen in Sharjah Showdown
- Devanath Destroys, Sahil Shines – Mumbai Rangers Dazzle Past Chennai Thalaivas
- Vinod and Anish Shine as Goa Strikers Edge Indore Chargers in a Nail-Biting Thriller
- Gopal’s Power Show, Shiyad’s Fireworks – Gwalior Knights Storm Past Bengaluru in Style