Shillong, Apr 5: Friends United won the final of the East Khasi Hills Cricket Association’s 5th District League T20 Cricket Tournament 2026 by 1 wicket against Cricket Smit at Saitsohpen, Sohra, on Saturday.
This was the first final in the tournament for either side and thus the first time the trophy has been won by Friends United.
Due to rain the match was reduced to 18 overs per side. Friends United won the toss and chose to field first and were able to skittle Cricket Smit for just 72 in 16.1 overs. Nikodomas Lyngdoh made 25 from 22 balls while Bryan Macmillan Marbaniang scalped 4/9 in 3.1 overs.
Batting second wasn’t any easier, with Friends United losing nine wickets on their way to victory, which was secured off the penultimate ball of the innings. Precious Nongrud made 25 from 39 deliveries as Friends Utd reached 75/9 in 17.5 overs. Pynkhrawbok Thabah was impressive with 4/8 in 4 overs but this was ultimately in a losing cause.
Friends United follow in the footsteps of Cricket Lovers (champions of the first and fourth editions), Laitjem CC (second edition) and Hurdles CC (third edition).
Precious Nongrud (who also took 1/9 in 3 overs with the ball) was named Player of the Final while Bryan Macmillan Marbaniang was the Player of the Tournament.
As champions Friends United received Rs 40,000 in prize money, which was presented to them by the chief guest, Meghalaya Cricket Association President James PK Sangma. Other dignitaries present were D Kynta, Sirdar Elaka Saitsohpen; Evan Maxwell Basaiawmoit, President of the Sohra Sports Association; members from the Seng Samla Saitsohpen; Synjuk Kynthei Saitsohpen; and officials from the East Khasi Hills Cricket Association.
(East Khasi Hills Cricket Association photo)
