Chennai: Wicketkeeper -batsman R Kavin (73) and all-rounder RS Jaganath Srinivas (54) stitched a valiant 93-run stand for the seventh wicket, but their efforts went in vain as Alwarpet Cricket Club (317 all out) went down to Jolly Rovers (434 for 3) in the TNCA First Division League final at the IIT-M Chemplast Ground here on Friday.
By virtue of first innings lead, Rovers clinched its 20th league title and the Raja of Palayampatti Shield. If there had been an unfinished first inning at the end of three days, run quotient and run-rate would have been taken into consideration. As Alwarpet was behind in both aspects, it had to outscore its opponent to win the trophy. But, it could make only 317, falling short by 117 runs and settling for a second place finish.
Continuing on its score of 123 for three, Alwarpet lost two quick wickets in the opening session. With Kavin holding one end up, R Sanjay Yadav made his way back to the pavilion after scoring 10 runs. The stumper, along with Jaganath then frustrated Jolly Rovers.
After 143 wicket-less deliveries, off-spinner Baba Aparajith (4/56) finally got the breakthrough by castling the stumps. Aparajith later cleaned up the tail and guided his side to a comfortable win. Rovers had posted a mammoth total of 434 for three, with Ankeet Bawane and Aparajith striking centuries.
Brief scores: Jolly Rovers (1st innings) 434 for 3 in 148 overs beat Alwarpet Cricket Club 317 all-out in 98.3 overs (R Kavin 73, RS Jaganath Sinivas 54, Baba Aparajith 4/56).