Spokane Spartans' first win of the season against friendly neighbors, the WSU Cougars!

Rishi and Param opened the bowling with well-executed four-over spells each, giving the Spartans a strong start at 32/3. Wasil and Dhruv then delivered exceptional spells, further restricting the opponents to 62/7 by the 20th-over drinks break, backed by impressive economy rates. Returning for their second spells, Rishi, Param, and Wasil continued to strike, keeping the required run rate below 3.0. The game was firmly in Spartans' control once Rahat stepped in, taking two consecutive wickets in his very first over without conceding a single run — Way to go, Champ! The Captain then wrapped up the first innings by taking the final wicket, finishing as the highest wicket-taker with 3/22 in 6.5 overs, followed by Rishi, Wasil, and Rahat with two wickets each. In contrast, Dhruv took one wicket for himself, but he made a difference with three catches. The Spartan bowlers and fielders dominated today's game from the get-go. They restricted WSU Cougars to 78.

Chasing a modest target, the Spartans stepped onto the field with confidence. By the end of the 10th over, they were comfortably placed at 36/0, with Gaurava leading the charge and Rishi steady at the other end — a solid opening partnership! The duo put up 50 runs on the board in the 12th over, with Gaurava scoring 27, Rishi adding 10, and the Cougars contributing 13 extras.

Following Gaurava’s unfortunate run-out and the quick fall of three wickets, a tense few overs unfolded. However, the scoreboard kept moving, helped by 23 runs in extras. The opening partnership between Rishi and Gaurava ultimately proved vital in securing the win in just 20 overs.

To start the season with an early morning drive to Pullman at this time of the year is refreshing, and to return home with a win is bliss!

Rishi, the dependable all-rounder, stayed unbeaten on 22 and was rightly named the man of the match. He took two wickets at an impressive economy rate of 3.5, which included 25 dot balls and just a single extra run.

In a low-scoring game, not everyone had the chance to contribute as much, but every Spartan showed up and gave their best. One such player, Bilal, a student, was even seen studying during the break — a true display of commitment and sportsmanship!