South Zone clinched the Deodhar Trophy 2023 with a thrilling 45-run victory over East Zone in a high-scoring final. The match witnessed spectacular performances. However, Riyan Parag's remarkable innings went in vain as he failed to win it for East Zone. Parag's explosive knock of 95 runs off 65 balls, consisting of 8 boundaries and 5 sixes, was not enough for East to chase the total.
Earlier, After South opted to bat, Rohan Kunnummal and skipper Mayank Agarwal laid a solid foundation with a commanding 181-run opening partnership. This partnership set the stage for a big total of 329 for nine. In response, East Zone stumbled early, losing three wickets for just 13 runs thanks to V. Koushik and Kaverappa's early strikes.
But Riyan Parag and Kumar Kushagra showcased their resilience and prowess, weaving a crucial 105-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Parag's masterclass of backfoot power hitting was on full display as he disdainfully pulled pacers and spinners over the midwicket fence. However, for the South, Washington had the last laugh, dismissing Parag at the crucial stage.
Rohan Kunnummal stole the show for the South Zone
In the afternoon, Rohan batted amazingly, hitting all around the park. His spectacular innings of 107 runs off 75 balls, comprising 11 boundaries and 4 sixes, propelled South to a formidable total. Despite East Zone's spinners putting up a fight in the middle overs, N. Jagadeesan's grinding half-century helped South Zone set an above-par target, which eventually proved too much for East to chase down.
Overall, South Zone's victory in the Deodhar Trophy was a testament to their batting prowess and ability to rise to the occasion. However, it was Riyan Parag's exceptional performance that stole the show, leaving a lasting impact with his sensational hitting and powering. He won the player of the tournament for his two centuries and 11 wickets in five games.
Here is how fans reacted to South Zone's amazing victory:
Great!! Go ahead!! ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ
โ 000.sui ๐ฅ (@myselfn10n) August 3, 2023
Riyan Parag has the highest runs and joint second highest wickets in this series.
โ Mit ๐บโฎ๏ธ๐ป (@timyruh) August 3, 2023
This champion team should get a opportunity to play with current Indian team , we'll get to know where our team stands both domestic or international
โ Harbhajan Turbanator (Parody) (@77thHundredwhnx) August 3, 2023
Mayank agarwal is most underrated player to play india score 4 fiftys now 90+ avg of test at home but still not consider ๐ญ๐ญ
โ Indian๐ฎ๐ณ race( pure) (@Allotedking) August 3, 2023
Mayank knows how to lead his side
โ Rahul Singh (@thebeginning_0) August 3, 2023
Orange Army ๐ฅ
โ Arjun4u (@Arjun4u1) August 3, 2023
Sai sudarshan
โ Saiman (@saiman_pradhan) August 3, 2023
Played final in ipl 2023
Played final in tnpl 2023
Played final in emerging Asia Cup 2023
Played final in Deodhar Trophy 2023
Minus bat and pad, their jerseys looks like if they're playing a tennis ball tournament
โ ๐ (@Sammohit_) August 3, 2023
Mayank has been amazing after IPL should get a Call Up for asia cup or asian games
โ Pragyan (@Pragyan_KDB17) August 3, 2023
Riyan parag team?
โ Shiva ganesh reddy (@Shivaganeshred6) August 3, 2023
Yeh kbhi international me esa khel leta toh shi rehta
โ เคฐเคเคฟเคค M ๐ (@rachit1m) August 3, 2023