Did Bhopal Leopards and Chambal Ghariyals Secure Their Semifinal Spots?

Gwalior, June 23 (NationPress) The concluding day of the league phase in the Madhya Pradesh League 2025 saw Bhopal Leopards and Chambal Ghariyals clinch their spots in the semifinals, joining the Rewa Jaguars and Gwalior Cheetahs. The final matches, held at the Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium, brought an exhilarating end to the group stage.

In the initial match of the day, the Bhopal Leopards were set to compete against the Indore Pink Panthers, but continuous rain caused the game to be abandoned before a single ball was bowled. Consequently, both teams received a point each. This result propelled the Bhopal Leopards to six points, ensuring their progression to the knockout rounds, while the Indore Pink Panthers, with only four points from six matches, were eliminated from the tournament.

The second and final encounter of the league stage witnessed the rain finally easing, allowing the match between Chambal Ghariyals and Bundelkhand Bulls to proceed in its entirety. The Chambal Ghariyals showcased a remarkable all-round performance, successfully chasing down a target of 164 runs in just 13.2 overs, marking a convincing six-wicket victory and securing second place on the points table.

Earlier, the Bundelkhand Bulls, who were vying for a knockout position, faced a setback when Karan Tahliyani was dismissed on the first ball of the match by Vineet Rawat. Despite Abhishek Pathak (37 off 16) and Harsh Gawli (37 off 25) attempting to build momentum with an aggressive partnership, a middle-order collapse hindered their advancement. Divyanshu Yadav contributed a steady 44 not out off 43 balls, while Abhishek Mavi added 28 off 19, helping them to a total of 163/8 in 20 overs.

In response, the Chambal Ghariyals approached the chase with an aggressive spirit. Openers Apurve Dwivedi and Ankush Singh made their intentions clear from the onset, forging a rapid 123-run partnership in just 8.5 overs. Ankush struck 42 off 22 balls, while Apurve dazzled with a remarkable 77 off just 33 balls. The explosive beginning left little for the middle order, who comfortably completed the chase with over six overs remaining.

This victory confirmed the Chambal Ghariyals’ entry into the semifinals, a significant achievement in their inaugural season within the Madhya Pradesh League. Adding to their accolades, the Chambal Ghariyals Women’s team has already reached the final of the MP Women’s League T20 2025, giving the franchise a genuine chance to claim both titles this season.

Post-match, Chambal Ghariyals captain Shubham Sharma commended the team’s collective effort, stating, “Everyone is really happy right now. Our women’s team was present today to support us. The energy is fantastic, and we aim to carry this momentum into the semifinals.”

Regarding their strategy against the Bundelkhand Bulls, who entered with strong form, Sharma remarked, “They’ve been playing well, but we kept our plans straightforward and focused on the basics.”

Reflecting on his team’s journey so far, he added, “One of the best indicators this season is the number of players stepping up at various moments. Everyone is contributing, which is aiding our victories.”

On the prospect of winning both the men’s and women’s titles, Shubham expressed, “It would be incredible to win both trophies. The girls have already reached the final, and we’re just one step away. If we maintain this performance, anything is within reach.”

With the league stage concluded, all eyes now shift to the semifinals, where the tournament's four top teams will compete for a spot in the prestigious grand finale of the MPL 2025.