Defending champions Dethroned! KM Asif leads Kerala to sensational win over Mumbai

In one of the biggest upsets of the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Kerala stuck a deadly blow on defending champions Mumbai riding on a magnificent 5 Wicket haul from Pacer KM Asif . On a day that promised high quality domestic day t20 cricket, the script flipped Dramatically as kerala showed plenty of discipline, composure and fairness intend to outclass star studded Mumbai outfit which entered the tournament as overwhelming to favourites.

It was not a victory simply because of one inspired spell. It was the product of some tactical clarity and ultimate belief. But beyond any doubt the star of the day was KM Asif, whose pace, late movement and clever variations left the Mumbai batting line upin batters. From the very first over, Asif looked like he was on a mission as he kept hitting those hard lengths and forced the Mumbai batters onto the backfoot. His 5 wicket haul not only broke the backbone of Mumbai innings but also injected confidence into a huge young. Kerala side hungry to make statement in India’s premier domestic T20 competition.

Mumbai, The team known for their strong starts, faltrated right at the beginning. The top order of Mumbai, which has been strong and dependable one crumbled under their sustained pressure. Asif opened the floodgates with a sharp outswinger that found the edge And from there, Kerala’s bowler tightened the nose. Even the stabilised Mumbai batters could not find rhythm as dot balls kept accumulating and frustration crept in. Asif returned in the later overs to dismantle the middle order and showing Mumbai never recovered. His figures. Economically and destructive will be remembered as one of the standard performances of this years tournament.

Chasing a modest total the openers showed patience as kerala top order anchored the chase smartly mixing caution with calculated aggression. A couple of early wickets gave Mumbai a glimmer of Hope. But kerala middle order held firm sensible rotation of strike, sharp running between the wickets and timely boundaries ensured showed the chase never spiraled out of control. The finishing touch game with calm headed batting in the final over sealing a memorable victory with balls to a spare.

What you made Kerala’s Triumph even more special was the manner in which they executed their plans. Mumbai, despite their reputation and depth, were Outthought and out played. Kerala’s bowlers stuck to disciplined lines, the fielders back them up with athletic efforts and the batters absorbed pressure without panicking. It was a complete team performance, something that will boost their confidence immensely going forward in the tournament.

This defeat is a wake up call for mumbai expectations were huge considering them the defending champions but often cricket reminds its giants that reputation alone wins no matches. intent was missing in their batting the middle order appeared Under pressure and the finish lacked punch, management will have some tough questions to address before their next outing.

Kerala will be ecstatic. Such a victory Kerala Will be ecstatic. Such a victory can turn Around the course of season. KM Asif heroics in particular will be remembered at the season saving movement, his ability to strike early, then keep the pressure on and return to pick up wickets at important junctures showed the majority, he has gathered playing seasons of domestic cricket and exposure to the IPL. Of the many upsets that the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has witnessed so far, Kerala’s stunning win over Mumbai will remain one of the most talked about movements. And right at the fulcrum of it all is. KM Asif the pace spearhead who scripted a victory that guerrilla cricket will cherish for a long time.