Batting first, The Warriors Malappuram Sultans got off to a solid start but soon found themselves struggling against disciplined bowling. Billyas Billu’s 30 off 20 balls gave early momentum, while Rachin Style and Ryan Rasheed steadied the ship briefly. However, once Vimal and Leander Daryl Paul came into the attack, the tempo dipped. Leander’s spell was particularly clinical — 4 overs, 9 runs, and 2 wickets — breaking the back of the Sultans’ middle order. Rameez Abdul Kareem (18 off 9) provided a short-lived counterattack with two sixes before perishing, while skipper Noushad Noushu (8 off 5) couldn’t capitalize. Mohammed Niaz (21 off 26) fought to push the total to a defendable 141/7, but the innings lacked a finisher’s punch. Thrissur’s bowlers, led by Leander, bowled with guile and precision, ensuring the Sultans never accelerated beyond a run rate of seven per over.

When it came to the chase, Jereesh Jalaludeen turned the game into a personal highlight reel. Walking in early, he produced one of the most explosive knocks of the tournament — a breathtaking 77 off 33 balls, studded with 8 fours and 5 towering sixes. His timing was pure, his confidence unshakable. Partner Sreenath K matched the momentum with a blazing 48 off 19 balls, and together they dismantled Malappuram’s bowling attack. Their partnership not only chased the target but made it look effortless, with the Legends reaching 145/3 in just 12.1 overs.