Exiles were beaten by one wicket by Karnataka Challengers on Sunday at Haydons Road in a pulsating encounter that ebbed and flowed both ways.

Exiles lost the toss and were soon in trouble at 11 for 3 before a restorative 31 from KK in partnership with Andy (36) as they put on 57 for the 4th wicket. Andy then continued to play the supporting role in a partnership of 86 with Ishaq who made a hard hit 57.

Once Ishaq was dismissed the innings subsided somewhat from 154 for 4, to 199 all out – with Naren inevitably run out in partnership with John at the death.

Karnataka flew out of the blocks but were then pegged back by 2 wickets from Ishaq and one for the evergreen Naren, bowled of course. Karnataka reached drinks at 84 for 4 off 17 – exactly the same as the Exiles had been.

A belligerent 55 from the opposition number 6 put Karnataka back in control but the Exiles kept chipping away – highlighted by a direct hit run out by KK. At 172 for 9 Exiles looked all but home but the no’s 9 and 11 batted very sensibly to take their side home, putting on 30 for the last wicket, only offering one clear chance.

So an agonising defeat in a fine game. Exiles play The Blues back at Haydon’s Road next Sunday.

Exiles and Riverside played out an excellent tied game on Sunday.

Batting first, Exiles were indebted to 76 from KK to boost the score after an early 40 from skipper Shahid, ending on 183 all out off the last ball of the 40 overs.

In reply Exiles took regular wickets – with 4 for 58 from KK and 3 for 26 from Hasan – but a late 36 not out from Riversides number 10 nearly stole the game – only for only a single to be taken off the final ball with two needed resulting in a tie.

A fine match. Karnataka at Haydon’s Road next week.