RIYADH — Victorians Cricket Club edged Nawabs-XI by one run in a thrilling final of the Republic Day Cup 2013 at Eidgah ground here recently. A blistering 87 off 34 balls with 10 sixes by Shahbaz could not save Nawabs. Nawabs-XI stayed close to reach the winning target of 185. Nawabs needed 6 from the last over. Needing 2 runs off the last ball, the batsman tried to play straight and gave a simple catch to the bowler to hand Victorians the championship. Aftab, Moin and Ashfaq were the top performers for Victorians, who elected to bat first. The 12-week-long tournament, jointly organized by Andhra Pradesh United Society (APUS) and Riyadh Premier League (RPL) concluded last Friday. Guest of honor Abdul Rahman distributed the cup and medals. RPL President Ahmed Shafiq Tamimi, Chairman Taher Bin Jaffer and executive members Kaleem Khan, Mohammed Fahad Bin Sayeed and Shakeel Sarfaraz were also present. The award for the best batsman went to Raof Ali Khan of Imperial Cricket Club and the best bowler award winner was Azeem of Royal Deccan Cricket Club. Hyderabad Champs bagged the best emerging team honor. Riyadh Warriors was given the fair play award. The Republic Day Cup 2013 was sponsored by Mumtaz Hyderabadi Restaurant. APUS and RPL provided mementos to representatives of media organizations. — SG
