The Big Cricket League (BCL) 2024 concluded on December 22 with the Mumbai Marines clinching the title in a thrilling final against the Southern Spartans.
The match was a showdown between two former world champions—Irfan Pathan, leading the Marines, and Suresh Raina, captaining the Spartans. Ultimately, Pathan’s team emerged victorious in a high-scoring contest.
The Pathan-led Marines had a mixed season, narrowly securing a playoff spot. In the final, they faced a daunting target of 210 after the Spartans posted a mammoth total, powered by Phil Mustard’s blistering 39-ball 78 and Raina’s quickfire 51 off 26 deliveries.
However, the Marines responded with a counter-attack led by Jesal Karia (75 off 39) and Manan Sharma (an unbeaten 89 off 42), supported by Pathan’s 18-ball 27*. Their aggressive approach ensured they chased down the target with five balls to spare, securing a memorable win.
Pathan’s family was present at the venue, making the victory even more meaningful for the all-rounder. Taking to social media, he shared his joy: “Winning any trophy in front of them is everything,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
– Jesal Karia (Mumbai Marines): The tournament’s highest run-scorer, Karia amassed 404 runs in seven innings at an average of 67.33 and a strike rate of 175.65, including two centuries and two half-centuries.
– Malinda Pushpakumara (Mumbai Marines): The former Sri Lankan all-rounder claimed 12 wickets, leading the wicket-takers’ chart with an average of 17.25, an economy rate of 7.96, and best figures of 4/12.
While Pathan had a limited impact with the ball, he played crucial cameos with the bat, scoring 131 runs in six innings at an average of 32.75 and a strike rate of 172.37.
The BCL 2024’s inaugural edition delivered a mix of drama, high scores, and standout individual performances, setting the stage for a promising future for the tournament.