Kannur’s reply didn’t start smoothly. Sameer Koyanji managed 20 before edging behind, while Mohammed Nivas and Abdul Rahman fell cheaply, leaving the team 24 for 2 and under real pressure. However, Vishnu Sasikumar’s majestic 97 from 50 deliveries turned the tide completely. He blended power with precision, striking 12 boundaries and 5 towering sixes that dismantled the bowling attack. His presence at the crease gave Kannur composure, and his ability to rotate strike kept the innings balanced. Partnering with captain Vinu Vijayan (36 off 22), the pair rebuilt confidently, adding brisk runs and pushing the run rate back into control. Their combination was the defining factor of the chase, setting the foundation for a clinical finish.

Even after Vinu fell, Vishnu carried the innings deep, ensuring there were no nerves despite wickets falling around him. Contributions from Jishnu Sunil Kumar (7) and a quick 7 not out from Arun Jose polished off the chase with four deliveries to spare. The squad’s collective effort, anchored by Vishnu’s brilliance, ensured the Knights’ bowlers couldn’t capitalize despite Shiyad Meleveetill’s accurate spell of 3 for 32. The Knights fought valiantly, but Kannur’s dominance in the middle overs and Vishnu’s near-century meant the chase never truly slipped out of their grasp. Ending on 194 for 6, Kannur celebrated a memorable four-wicket triumph in front of delighted supporters.