By Frederick Halley

UNFANCIED Trophy Stall Lions defied the odds to cart off the Legends Over-50 category when the 19th edition of the New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) tournament climaxed at Baisley Park, Rockaway, Queens on Sunday.
Already with a massive victory over the much-vaunted NYSCL 1 in Saturday’s semi-final, played at Seaview Park, Brooklyn, Trophy Stall Lions, who previously played under the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) banner, whipped New York Muslim by five wickets in an exciting encounter to claim the coveted title.

Set 104 for victory, in the low-scoring affair, Trophy Stall Lions were precariously placed at 38 for five before Vishwnauth “Kash” Lutchman with a brilliant undefeated 42 and Khemraj Budhai (10 not out) ensured no further alarms. The two added a face-saving uneaten 67 for the sixth wicket with Lutchman dominating the stand.

When victory was achieved in 15,3 overs, much to the delight of the Trophy Stall players and supporters, the hard-hitting Lutchman had counted three fours and two sixes in his knock. Extras were a healthy 32, including 22 wides. Earlier, New York Muslim, taking first strike, never got going as they lost wickets at regular intervals and were bundled out for a paltry 103 in 19 overs. Opener Mahadeo Sarjoo hit two fours and a six in a top score of 25 while Anup Mangar contributed 17.
Vishwanauth Lutchman completed a fine all-round performance, claiming three for 28 while there were two wickets each for Budhai, Tulsie Lutchman and Ravi Achaibar for 10, 16 and 20 runs respectively.
The victory was also sweet revenge for Trophy Stall Lions who were skittled out for 89 against the same opponents in their final preliminary game on Saturday morning at Seaview Park with New York Muslim securing a win by seven wickets.
Trophy Stall however rebounded to inflict a crushing seven-wicket victory over NYSCL 1 in Saturday’s semi-final clash, played at the same venue.

Entering the encounter as firm favourites, NYSCL were shut out for 109 in 17.4 overs with Manoj Kumar (23) being the main scorer. Mahesh “Ravi” Lutchman was the chief destroyer with three for five from 2.4 overs while Achaibar took two for 18, Tulsi Lutchman two for 21 and Budhai two for 30.
Trophy Stall Lions reached the required target in 15,5 overs with Mahesh Lutchman hitting an unbeaten 33 and Manesh Chunilall 32 not out.
Trophy Stall Lions took home $3000 (US) and the winning Eagle while all the players were recipients of medals. Vishwanauth “Kash” Lutchman carted off both the Player of the final and Player of the tournament awards.
Runners-up New York Muslim received a trophy while the players also got medals. Toronto Blizzards’ Sunil Dhaniram, who registered the most runs (276) and also scored the lone century in the category, collected trophies for his efforts while the top bowler was Mangar (New York Muslim) with eight wickets. Mahesh Lutchman recorded the best figures (three for five).
Following the victory, long-standing member of GFSCA and Trophy Stall proprietor, Ramesh Sunich said he was overwhelmed with emotions after learning the victory and congratulated the players on their much-deserved achievement.
“Your triumph in the finals was a result of a true team effort, determination. I commend also the sportsmanlike spirit which The Trophy Stall Lions displayed throughout the competition. I am incredibly proud to have sponsored such a commendable and determined group of cricketers.

“The final match showcased your skill, perseverance, and strategic brilliance, culminating in a well-deserved victory. This accomplishment is not only a fitting reward for your hard work but also a shining example of what can be achieved through teamwork.
“As you revel in this glorious victory, I am sure it will be part of many more successes for The Trophy Stall Lions. May this achievement serve as a stepping stone to even greater heights. May you continue to play with the passion and discipline which you exhibited in this competition.
“I look forward to supporting and cheering for The Trophy Stall Lions in all your future endeavours.”