Salt n’ Pepper and Defenders Cricket Club held their nerve and remained resolute to clinch the titles in the Greater Accra Cricket Association (GACA) T10 Knockout Championship, which climaxed in thrilling fashion at the Achimota Cricket Ovals A & B on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
Defenders Claim First-Ever Trophy
Defenders Cricket Club lifted their maiden silverware since the club’s inception with a remarkable run in the Bottom 4 category. The day began with an outstanding match from April 27, where Bangla Tigers outclassed Champions United with a 19-run victory. Explosive batting in the powerplay saw Bangla post 84/6, and they went on to restrict Champions United to 65/6.
Bangla Tigers then faced Panjab Warriors in a tense semi-final. Despite scoring 51 all out in 9.5 overs, Bangla fell to Panjab, who chased the target with discipline to win by 5 wickets (52/5 in 8.3 overs).
In the second semi-final, Defenders eased past Supreme Cricket Club with an 8-wicket win. Awala anchored the chase with an unbeaten 25 off 19 balls, leading Defenders to 68/2 in 6.3 overs after restricting Supreme to 62/4.
The final against Panjab Warriors was a dramatic showdown. Panjab set a modest total of 64 all out, but made Defenders work hard for the win. With five runs needed off two balls, Varinder Sekhon sealed it with a sensational six over deep mid-wicket, securing a 4-wicket win and etching a beautiful memory in Defenders’ history.
Salt n’ Pepper Spice Things Up
In Group A, Salt n’ Pepper turned up the heat. After BGC advanced through a walkover against Alpha Cricket Club, they were stunned by Salt n’ Pepper in the semi-final. BGC posted 57 before losing all 10 wickets, and Salt n’ Pepper chased it down with ease, scoring 58/4 in just 6.2 overs.
Earlier in the group, Carel Super Kings (CSK) couldn’t replicate their T20 heroics, falling to Rana Motors by 7 wickets. CSK were bowled out for 49 in 9.5 overs, thanks to disciplined bowling from Shijo and Shajahan, who took three wickets apiece. Rana chased down the target in 8.2 overs, losing only three wickets.
The grand finale between Salt n’ Pepper and Rana Motors lived up to the hype. Rana Motors lost key batsman Richmond Baaleri early (0.5 over), courtesy of Lee Nyarko’s sharp delivery and Bernard Addo’s excellent catch at deep square leg. They struggled to build momentum and settled for 66/7, with Suraj Prajapathi taking 2/20.
Salt n’ Pepper responded with a balanced and confident chase. Despite a moment of revenge from Baaleri, who dismissed Nyarko, Salt n’ Pepper kept composure and crossed the finish line with 67/4 in 7.4 overs to win by 6 wickets.
The champions lifted the giant trophy alongside a GH₵1,100.00 cash prize, while runners-up Rana Motors took home GH₵5,000.00 and a trophy.
GACA Chairman Commits to Cricket Growth
Chairman of the Greater Accra Cricket Association, Mr. Patel Akoliya V.N, praised the enthusiasm and competitiveness shown throughout the tournament and reaffirmed GACA’s commitment to the sport’s development.
“We know cricket is not very popular in Ghana, but we’re working hard to change that. Our goal is to involve more people, especially Ghanaians, to build a solid base that will see us compete at African Games and other top tournaments.”
The GACA T10 Knockout Championship, which ran from April 26 to May 4, 2025, will be remembered as one of the most exciting and engaging cricket events in recent history, setting a solid foundation for more cricket glory ahead.
By: Davis Nii Attuquaye Clottey
