29/06/2025
Dar Aqib Aqib All-Round Brilliance Powers HCC Hanjiwera to First Victory in Amberpora T20 Championship 2025
Akhtar Ali
Baramulla, June 28, 2025: The ongoing Amberpora T20 Championship 2025 witnessed a thrilling contest as HCC Hanjiwera registered their first win of the tournament, defeating FCC Khanpora by 3 wickets in a nail-biting encounter. The match was defined by a spectacular all-round performance from Aaqib Yousuf, who was deservedly declared the Player of the Match.
Winning the toss, HCC Hanjiwera elected to field first on a pitch that looked lively early on. FCC Khanpora took to the crease and posted a competitive total of 157/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Their innings saw some resistance from the middle order, but HCC’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Aaqib Yousuf, never allowed them to break free.
Aaqib was sensational with the ball, delivering tight lines and showing his versatility by claiming 4 wickets, putting FCC on the back foot at crucial moments. His ability to pick wickets in regular intervals helped restrict the opposition to a chaseable total, despite a few late fireworks from the FCC tailenders.
In response, HCC Hanjiwera began the chase with determination, but early wickets made the path to victory far from easy. At one stage, the match seemed to be slipping away as the FCC bowlers kept the pressure on. However, the match took a dramatic turn when Aaqib Yousuf came in to bat.
Displaying extraordinary temperament and attacking flair, Aaqib played a match-winning knock of 73 not out off just 30 balls, which included 4 boundaries and 8 sixes. His power-hitting ability dismantled the FCC bowling attack, bringing the required run rate under control in a matter of overs. He remained unbeaten till the end and guided his team home in just 19.1 overs, with the final score reading 158/7.
His fearless batting, combined with his earlier heroics with the ball, made him the undisputed star of the match. Not only did he take his team over the line, but he also set an early benchmark for all-round performances in the tournament.
Speaking after the game, Aaqib said, “It feels amazing to perform like this. The team needed someone to step up, and I’m glad I could do it both with the ball and the bat. Winning our first match is always special, and I’m happy to contribute.”
With this win, HCC Hanjiwera opens their account in the 2025 Amberpora T20 Championship, gaining valuable momentum as the tournament progresses. The management and fans lauded Aaqib Yousuf’s effort, calling it one of the finest all-round displays in recent memory.
The Amberpora T20 Championship continues to deliver exciting cricketing action, and if today’s performance is anything to go by, HCC Hanjiwera will be a team to watch out for in the days to come.
