Kollam Sailors, in response, were powered by Mukul Maalik’s masterful 70 off 44 balls, a knock that combined aggression with calculation. He dominated the field, striking nine fours and two sixes, ensuring the chase was always alive. His partnership with Sheridan Hadfield (43 off 23) set the tempo, with the pair plundering runs in the powerplay. Mohsen Mattoo’s steady 36 not out held the middle together, while Fostus Baby applied the finishing touches with a rapid 29 off 16. Extras from Calicut, including 12 wides, further eased the chase, as Kollam crossed 198/4 in 19.5 overs. It was a display of composure under pressure, underlining Kollam’s batting depth and adaptability.

Calicut’s bowlers had moments but lacked consistency. Mahroof VK struck once, dismissing Gurdip Singh Virdi, and Shafeeque CP removed Yuvraj Barua cheaply, but they bled runs at crucial junctures. Visakh’s disciplined 2 overs for 13 included the prized wicket of Maalik, but by then the damage was done. Their fielding too had bright spots, none bigger than Yuvraj Barua’s catch, which dismissed both Rameez Nawab and Mehdi Asaria during Calicut’s innings. That effort, sharp and athletic, earned him the Safe Hands award, highlighting how one moment of brilliance in the field can lift team spirit even in defeat.