The opening match of the IMLT20 2025 witnessed a nail-biting contest between India Masters and Sri Lanka Masters at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. Both teams, filled with legendary players from the past, delivered an entertaining clash that went down to the wire. In the end, India Masters secured a thrilling four-run victory, holding off a late charge from Sri Lanka Masters.

India Masters Post a Mammoth Total

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, India Masters put up an impressive total of 222/4 in their 20 overs. The innings was powered by Stuart Binny’s explosive knock of 68 off 31 balls, which included 6 fours and 5 sixes. Yusuf Pathan, known for his aggressive stroke play, provided the finishing touches with an unbeaten 56 off just 22 deliveries, striking at a rate of over 250.

The Indian openers gave a steady start, with Virender Sehwag showing glimpses of his vintage form before falling for 24. Suresh Raina, batting at No. 3, chipped in with a quick 35 off 22 balls, anchoring the innings in the middle overs. However, it was the Stuart Binny-Yusuf Pathan partnership that took the game away from Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lankan bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with Farveez Maharoof (1/39) and Isuru Udana (1/41) being the only bowlers to pick up wickets. The spinners were ineffective, with Ajantha Mendis conceding 45 runs in his 4 overs without taking a wicket.

Sri Lanka Masters’ Spirited Chase Falls Just Short

Chasing a daunting target of 223, Sri Lanka Masters got off to a shaky start, losing Tillakaratne Dilshan early for just 7 runs. However, Kumar Sangakkara, leading from the front, played a captain’s knock, scoring 51 off 30 balls. He found able support from Upul Tharanga (39 off 24 balls), as the duo put together a solid partnership to keep the chase alive.

Despite a strong foundation, Sri Lanka lost momentum in the middle overs with the dismissals of Mahela Jayawardene (21) and Chamara Kapugedera (12). The required run rate kept creeping up, and India’s bowlers tightened their grip on the game.

Just when it seemed like India Masters had sealed the match, Jeevan Mendis and Isuru Udana launched a stunning counterattack. Mendis smashed 42 off just 17 balls, hitting 4 sixes in the process, while Udana’s late blitz of 23 off 7 balls made for an electrifying finish.

With 15 runs needed off the last over, Irfan Pathan was given the responsibility to bowl. He kept his composure, conceding only 10 runs and picking up a crucial wicket, ensuring India Masters walked away victorious by a narrow margin of 4 runs.

IMLT20: Key Performers of the Match

• Stuart Binny (India Masters): 68 off 31 balls (6 fours, 5 sixes)
• Yusuf Pathan (India Masters): 56* off 22 balls (4 fours, 4 sixes)
• Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka Masters): 51 off 30 balls (6 fours, 1 six)
• Jeevan Mendis (Sri Lanka Masters): 42 off 17 balls (4 sixes)
• Irfan Pathan (India Masters): 3/39 in 4 overs

Conclusion

The International Masters League T20 2025 got off to a fantastic start with this high-scoring thriller. India Masters showcased their batting depth, while Sri Lanka Masters nearly pulled off a miraculous chase. With more matches to come, the tournament promises to bring more nostalgia and excitement for cricket fans.

India Masters will look to build on this victory, while Sri Lanka Masters will aim to bounce back in their next match. Fans can expect more action-packed encounters as the legends of the game continue to battle it out on the field!

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