Bhatkal: Golden Star, owned by Sandeep Shet, clinched the Sachin Memorial Trophy after a thrilling victory in the final held at Hanuman Nagar in Bhatkal.
In an IPL-style eight-over final, Golden Star successfully chased down a target of 86 runs set by Kitt Eleven, owned by Guru Naik. The team achieved the target with just one ball remaining, losing three wickets in the process. Kitt Eleven had earlier scored 86 for the loss of four wickets.
Abhishek, who played a decisive role with the bat in the final, was adjudged Player of the Match. The toss was conducted by senior journalist Vivek Mahale, with Golden Star opting to field first after winning it.
In the semifinals, Kitt Boys defeated host Netaji Sports Club in the first match, while Golden Star overcame Chaturvi in the second semifinal to secure a place in the final.
The two-day tournament was organised in memory of late Sachin Mahale, a senior member of Netaji Sports Club, and featured six teams. Matches were held over Saturday and Sunday, with the teams divided into two groups of three each, competing in a league format on the opening day.
Group A comprised Chaturvi, Kitt Boys and Venkateshwara Legends, while Group B included Golden Star, Netaji Sports Club and Siddhivinayak. The top teams from each group advanced to the semifinals.
Addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony, senior journalist Vivek Mahale said that organising such a well-conducted tournament was a fitting tribute to Sachin Mahale. Guests, including community leaders Raghuram Madival and Krishna Naik, appreciated the initiative and expressed hope that unity in the locality would continue.
The event was presided over by Netaji Sports Club President Amit Shivanand Mahale. Other dignitaries present included Mahale community president Rajesh G. Mahale, Hanuman Nagar School president Ishwar D. Naik, and Daivajna community leader Sadanand Raikar.
Golden Star received a cash prize of ₹22,000 along with a trophy, while runners-up Kitt Boys were awarded ₹11,000 and a trophy.
Kitt Boys’ Sachin Naik was named Player of the Series and also won the Orange Cap for scoring the highest runs in the tournament. His teammate Kitta secured the Purple Cap for taking the most wickets.