Panaji: Margao Cricket Club and Chowgule Sports Club opened their campaigns with impressive wins in the Goa Premier Division T20 League 2025-26, with both matches held at the GCA Ground in Sanguem-Kotarli.
In the opening afternoon fixture, Salgaocar Cricket Club posted a total of 138 runs, getting bowled out just before completing their 20 overs. The innings saw a steady start, with useful contributions at the top, while a quick 35 added momentum in the middle overs. Despite a few partnerships, frequent wickets prevented them from building a commanding total. Margao's bowling attack proved decisive, with two bowlers claiming four wickets each to restrict the opposition effectively.
In response, Margao faced early setbacks but recovered strongly thanks to a match defining innings. A fluent knock of 60 off 39 balls shifted the momentum, supported by a steady contribution from the middle order. The team successfully chased down the target, finishing at 142 for 6 in 19 overs to secure a four wicket victory.
The second match under lights featured Panjim Gymkhana setting a competitive total of 153 for 7. After losing early wickets, the innings was stabilised by two half centuries, including an unbeaten effort that helped the team reach a respectable score. Chowgule's bowlers kept things controlled, picking up key wickets at regular intervals.
Chasing 154, Chowgule adopted an aggressive approach from the outset. A captain's knock of 57 laid a strong foundation, while a crucial 41 added further stability. The finishing touches were applied confidently, with an unbeaten cameo guiding the team to 158 for 5 in just 18.4 overs, sealing a comfortable five wicket win.
Both teams will take confidence from their opening performances as the tournament progresses.