Sports News

In testing conditions and under mounting pressure, Siddhesh Lad once again proved why he is regarded as Mumbai’s ultimate crisis man, producing a magnificent century against Jammu & Kashmir in their Ranji Trophy encounter at Srinagar. On a pitch that demanded patience, technique, and mental toughness, Lad’s resolute knock stood out as a beacon of composure and class. Mumbai found themselves in early trouble after losing quick wickets to a disciplined J&K bowling attack that exploited the morning conditions expertly. With the ball moving off the seam and bounce remaining uneven, the visitors were staring at a precarious situation. It was then that Lad walked in, calm and focused, fully aware of the responsibility resting on his shoulders. Displaying immense maturity, Lad chose restraint over flamboyance in the initial phase of his innings. He left deliveries outside off-stump judiciously, defended with soft hands, and punished loose balls with precision rather than power. His footwork against spin was particularly impressive, as he used the crease intelligently to negate turn and bounce. As the innings progressed, Lad slowly began to assert himself. The drives through cover and mid-off were timed to perfection, while his occasional pull shots showed his growing confidence. Each run was hard-earned, reflecting his understanding of the conditions and the match situation. Partnerships built around his presence provided Mumbai the much-needed stability after early setbacks. The Srinagar crowd witnessed a masterclass in temperament as Lad weathered multiple bowling spells, including reverse swing and disciplined spin from J&K’s attack. His century, brought up with a controlled boundary, was met with understated celebration — a nod to his professionalism and the work still left to be done for the team. This hundred was not just about personal milestones; it was a statement innings. Lad’s knock anchored Mumbai’s innings and shifted the momentum decisively in their favor. It reaffirmed his reputation as a dependable middle-order batter who thrives when the team needs him most. Over the years, Siddhesh Lad has built a reputation for rising to the occasion in pressure situations, and this innings in Srinagar only adds to his growing legacy in domestic cricket. In a match where many struggled for fluency, his ability to adapt and endure underlined his value to the Mumbai setup. As Mumbai eyes another strong Ranji Trophy campaign, performances like these serve as a reminder that experience, grit, and temperament remain invaluable in the longest format of the game. In the cold confines of Srinagar, Siddhesh Lad stood tall — not just as a centurion, but as the backbone of Mumbai’s resilience.

The Srinagar boys’ team delivered an outstanding performance to emerge victorious in the Under-17 Softball Championship, defeating a strong Jammu side in an intense and closely contested final. The win marks a proud moment for Srinagar’s sporting community and highlights the growing talent and dedication of young athletes from the region. The championship final, held amid great enthusiasm and crowd support, witnessed both teams displaying exceptional skill, discipline, and sportsmanship. From the very first inning, the Srinagar team demonstrated confidence and tactical awareness, setting the tone for a competitive encounter. Their batting lineup showed composure under pressure, while the fielding unit remained sharp and alert throughout the match. Jammu, known for its strong softball tradition, put up a determined fight and tested Srinagar’s defense with aggressive batting and quick base running. However, Srinagar’s pitchers rose to the occasion, delivering accurate throws and crucial strikeouts at key moments of the game. The team’s coordination and strategic planning played a vital role in restricting Jammu’s scoring opportunities. One of the highlights of the final was Srinagar’s resilience during critical phases of the match. Even when Jammu attempted a comeback, the Srinagar boys remained calm, executing well-timed plays and maintaining their focus. Their ability to perform under pressure reflected months of rigorous training and the guidance of dedicated coaches. As the final out was recorded, celebrations erupted among players, coaches, and supporters. The victory was met with loud applause and cheers, symbolizing not just a championship win but the success of grassroots sports development in Srinagar. The players embraced each other, proudly representing their city and inspiring younger athletes watching from the stands. Officials and organizers praised both teams for their competitive spirit and adherence to fair play. The Srinagar team was especially commended for their teamwork, discipline, and consistent performance throughout the tournament. Coaches emphasized that the championship win is a result of hard work, commitment, and the unwavering support of families and sports authorities. The triumph of the Srinagar boys in the U-17 Softball Championship serves as a significant milestone for youth sports in the region. It reinforces the belief that with proper training, encouragement, and opportunities, young athletes from Kashmir can excel at state and national levels. The victory over Jammu in the final will be remembered as a defining moment in the team’s journey and a source of pride for Srinagar.