Local League: Skipper Suryapprakash praises team effort

“I’m delighted with our performance. What makes me proud is the fact that it was a team effort that enabled us to win. At different points of the season, several individuals put their hands up and made their presence felt. Heading into this final, we were facing some injury concerns to some of our key players and despite that we played with great determination and resolve to win the trophy after a very long time,” said the Grand Slam skipper. 

Another reason for him to cherish this triumph is that it helped him erase the painful memory of losing to the same team in the final a few years ago. “I’m the lone member of the team that lost to Trotters after we conceded the innings lead. So, after all these years to be a part of the victorious team against the same opponent gives me lot of joy,” added the 28-year-old.

Asked if he was gripped by anxiety when his team was trailing by nearly 50 runs with only three wickets remaining on the second day, Suryapprakash said he had belief in the batting ability of off-spinner B Arun. “We were a little tense but then I knew that Arun had it in him to occupy the crease. Even in our semi-final match against Vijay CC, he stepped out to bat in a similarly dire situation and got us out of trouble,” pointed out Surya. 

Surya said the last-ball four that Grand Slam tailender R Divakar hit off spinner M Sanjay on day two to put his team ahead by one run was something that he would remember for a very long time. “That four helped us heave a collective sigh of relief. With Globe Trotters taking a second new ball and Thampi bowling so well, all it needed was just one good delivery to take a wicket. We are thrilled to have finished on the right side of the result,” remarked Suryapprakash.