In an electrifying conclusion to the 22nd BITS Sports Festival 2025, Manipal University emerged victorious in the cricket championship after a nail-biting final that extended into a Super Over showdown against hosts BITS Pilani. The prestigious tournament culminated with Indian cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar presenting the trophy to the triumphant Manipal team.
The championship match, played in a 12-over format, witnessed BITS Pilani setting a challenging target of 155 runs in 11.3 overs. Nikunj Maheshwari delivered an explosive performance with 55 runs off just 22 deliveries, supported by Kedar Kotak’s quickfire 24 from 12 balls. Manipal’s bowling attack, led by Arsh Lucky’s impressive four-wicket haul, with contributions from Hardik Pai and Pratham Mahale, managed to contain the hosts’ batting lineup.
Manipal’s response was spearheaded by captain Pratham, who smashed a brilliant 59 from 23 balls, while Vishnu Rajesh contributed 37 runs from 23 deliveries. The match reached its climax when Ayman Bijli’s remarkable last-over onslaught, requiring 26 runs from the final six deliveries, forced the game into a tie-breaker Super Over.
In the decisive Super Over, Manipal posted 15 runs and successfully defended their total against BITS Pilani’s batting effort, securing the championship title. The victorious team showcased consistent performances throughout the tournament from key players including Ayman Bijli, Hardik Pai, Rehan Sajith, Arsh Lucky, Sahil Shetty, and captain Pratham.
Manipal’s path to the final included impressive victories against London American University, Heriot-Watt University, City University Ajman, and Middlesex University in the knockout format competition, demonstrating their dominance in the inter-university sporting event.