With no history of rivalry or fierce competition between Lions CC and University, the T/20 Final is expected to be a friendly event. Both the teams go into the Final undefeated and stakes are high for both of them. Weighing heavily on Lions mind is the T/20 Championship title since they have fought hard in both versions of the game and already lost one. University on the other hand is riding high on their 2009 MCA Champions title and the momentum they have generated by being undefeated throughout the T/20 season. The stakes are probably higher for University as becoming an MCA twin Champion is everyone’s dream and they are just too close to it now.

Team News

With everyone fit and raring to go, there are no reported injuries either side of the clash. Both teams are expected to field the same playing 11 as the Semis to keep the momentum going and bank on existing team spirit.

“Our strength has been our discipline, the strong work ethic and rigor that go into instituting a structure around that discipline and a sense of performing and delivering as a TEAM, said Sanchit Madan , University CC.

Lions are expected to bank on Saminda to continue to fire as he has been throughout this year. If their bowlers are able to rip apart University’s discipline, that would make it an exciting day to be on the field.

Fear Factor

Lions: The continuous rise of Saminda as the “deadly run machine” is translating into worry and a real headache for the opponents. Sanchit Madan of University CC puts it this way:

“No fear factor per say except maybe for that 19 year old kid who seems to be scoring centuries this season like he has been plucking them off of a tree in his backyard – I jest!”

Players to watch out for: Saminda firing in the finals will make everyone stand on their toes and yet again witness the One Man Army. Sushant, Lalinda, Osagie and Swapnil are also a force to watch out for. They are match winners any day.

University CC: The discipline of UCC will be put to test this weekend. As they aim to become the MCA Twin Champions this year, pressure really is on them. The way they played against Stallions in the Finals is just a reminder of how deadly their discipline can be even in the death Overs.

Players to watch out for: The Captain, Kunal, is a real threat with his all round abilities and being able to dynamically adjust to the situation and lead. He leads his players with control and will be hard at work this weekend. There are plenty in University to be a reckoning force any day. Watch out for Murthy (appears more energetic after late season injury recovery), Kalpesh, Sanchit and Jibran.

Final Words

Lions always have the bulldozer impact in the T/20 games but they are also known to choke all of a sudden. If they can hold on to their nerves and work through University’s discipline, they might march to the title quickly.

University on the other hand has matured and rapidly climbed the top team ladder in the past couple years. A shining example to other teams, they are known to hold their nerves in nail biting finish and if few of their stars fire this weekend, there will be plenty running for cover on the field.

Quotes

“There is no ‘I’ in Team”, and thus expect each one us to do our part, which in essence translates into all of us collectively carrying the burden of taking UCC to any championship” – University CC

We didn’t hear back from Lions for this piece. Maybe they are keeping their words and strategy under the veil to possibly unleash this weekend.