The qualifier 1 of Legends 90 2025 witnessed the top two teams, Chhattisgarh Warriors and Rajasthan Kings, clashing for a spot in the tournament finals on February 15. Earlier that day, DLS defeated GJS by 43 runs, maintaining their hopes of reaching the finals scheduled for Monday at Raipur International Stadium. CW, as the home team, performed exceptionally well throughout the tournament and never displayed any nerves. After winning the toss, they opted to field first, considering the dew that would later affect the bowlers’ ability to grip the ball properly.
Blazing start by Rajasthan Kings
Phil Mustard, the ex-England wicketkeeper-batsman who performed exceptionally in the IVPL held in Greater Noida in February 2024, showcased his talent once more today with his aggressive style. He didn’t hold back against any of the Chhattisgarh Warriors bowlers, smashing sixes and fours all around the field. His approach remained consistent even after losing his opening partner, Asad Pathan, who scored 12 runs.
Gaurav Tomar also complemented Mustard’s aggression by contributing a rapid 28 runs.
Mustard, the entertainer
Although he lost his partners at one end, Mustard kept pressing on at the other end, preventing the bowlers from settling into a rhythm. His aggressive approach led to a consistent stream of runs, and Skipper Faiz Fazal also played his role well by scoring quickly at the opposite end. After Faizal was out, Rajat Singh and Rajesh Bishoi provided crucial support for Mustard, who scored an impressive 77 runs off only 34 balls before being run out after hitting six sixes and six fours. This performance enabled RK to set a total of 171/4 in 15 overs.
Unfazed CW looked confident in run chase
Martin Guptill, who had been a dominant force with his aggressive batting in the tournament’s initial stages, was dismissed for a duck. However, this setback did not shake the confidence of the Chhattisgarh Warriors. Rishi Dhawan stepped up with an explosive performance, ensuring that RK bowlers could not take advantage of Guptill’s wicket. Skipper Gurkeerat Singh Mann also matched Dhawan’s exceptional play, helping to maintain the Warriors’ momentum.
CW canter to Victory and Reach the Finals of Legends League 90
Bothi Rishi and Gurkeerat formed an exciting partnership of 130 runs against the struggling RK bowlers, who appeared bewildered by these aggressive batsmen and essentially gave up, as none of them seemed capable of breaking through to dismiss their rivals.
After skipper Mann exited the game with an exciting score of 59 from 29 balls, which included seven fours and three sixes, the Warriors were close to securing victory. Pawan Negi continued his aggressive play, leaving the bowlers with no respite as CW reached their target of 172 in only 12.5 overs.
Rishi Dhawan remained at the crease for the entire innings, ending with a classy unbeaten 99. Although a century would have been an ideal conclusion, team success is more important than personal milestones.
RK still has an opportunity to make it to the finals if they defeat DLS in Qualifier 2, scheduled for Sunday. The winner of that match will determine who faces CW in the finals on Monday.
