Suresh Raina rolled back the years with a stunning fifty, leading New York Lions CC to a 19-run win over Los Angeles Waves CC in the second match of the Sixty Strikes tournament, organized by the National Cricket League (NCL) T10 in the USA.

During the 10-over game, Raina smashed 53 off just 28 balls, helping his team reach a massive total of 126. Despite a brave effort, Los Angeles Waves couldn’t chase down the target, falling short by 19 runs.

Strong partnership between Suresh Raina and Upul Tharanga powers New York Lions

Batting first after being put in by Los Angeles, New York had a shaky start with opener Asad Shafiq falling early for just 3 runs. However, Raina found an able partner in former Sri Lankan opener Upul Tharanga. The duo stitched together a brilliant partnership, with Tharanga contributing a brisk 40 off 23 balls. Their stand helped New York recover from the early setback and post an imposing 126 for 2 in their allotted 10 overs.

Raina’s explosive knock stuns Shakib Al Hasan in NLC T10 2024

One of the match’s highlights was Raina’s dominance over Los Angeles Waves captain Shakib Al Hasan. Raina took on the world-class all-rounder in a thrilling over, smashing him for two sixes and a four. The over completely shifted momentum in New York’s favor, as Shakib struggled to contain Raina’s aggressive intent. This explosive display of batting reminded everyone of Raina’s ability to turn a game around single-handedly, even years after his retirement from international cricket.

In a power-packed over, Raina charged down the pitch to launch the first delivery for a six, setting the tone for his innings. Unfazed, he followed it up with a boundary and another massive six, dealing a significant blow to the Waves’ captain and pushing his team further towards a commanding total.

Here’s the video:

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Los Angeles Waves’ struggle in the chase

The chase began on a disastrous note for Los Angeles, as their opener Stephen Eskinazi was dismissed for a golden duck off the first ball of the innings. Although Adam Rossington (31 off 15), Tim David (19 off 10) and Joe Burns (17 off 9) tried to keep the Waves in the game, the target proved too daunting. Key player Shakib couldn’t provide the breakthrough performance his team needed, managing just 13 off 16 balls. His bowling also faltered, as he conceded 18 runs in his only over and didn’t return to the attack.

New York’s bowlers capitalized on the strong total set by their batters. Young USA bowler Shourya Gaur was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets and making key breakthroughs. Experienced South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi also chipped in with two important wickets, including the dismissal of Shakib. Their combined efforts restricted Los Angeles to 107 for 7, sealing the win for New York.

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