The Morning Cricket League Division 1 (2025–26 Season 2) began with fireworks at Po Kong Village Road, Hong Kong, as UKCC Raging Strikers defeated SW Marvels by 28 runs in a high-scoring contest.

Opting to bat first, the Raging Strikers posted a formidable 218/5 in 20 overs, powered by a breathtaking innings from Maaz Mohammad, who smashed 137 off just 60 balls with 10 fours and 6 sixes at a strike rate of 228.33. He was well supported by Manoj Bagri (35 off 32), while late cameos from Sushil Semwal (19 off 16) and Manu Mishra (11 off 4) ensured the Strikers crossed the 200-run mark. Despite the onslaught, SW Marvels found some success through Prabhu Shah (2/48) and Siddharth Pandit (run out), but their bowlers struggled to contain the momentum.

In reply, SW Marvels mounted a spirited chase, led by a magnificent unbeaten century from Ankur, who scored 125 off 67 balls*, striking 8 fours and 9 sixes at a strike rate of 186.57. His innings kept the Marvels in contention throughout, but lack of substantial support from the other end proved costly. Only Deven Bajetha (18 off 17)* offered late resistance, while the rest of the batting lineup faltered against disciplined bowling. The Raging Strikers’ attack was spearheaded by skipper Siddharth Pandit (3/19), who delivered a match-winning spell, supported by Laxman Rana (2/34) and Jasanpreet Singh (2/18).

Extras played a significant role in both innings, with Marvels conceding 7 wides and Strikers giving away 20 wides, reflecting the pressure of the opening fixture. Ultimately, the Raging Strikers’ batting depth and Pandit’s crucial breakthroughs ensured they secured victory by 28 runs, despite Ankur’s valiant hundred.

This opening clash set the tone for an exciting Division 1 season, showcasing individual brilliance from both sides — Maaz Mohammad’s explosive ton for the Strikers and Ankur’s fighting century for the Marvels — while underlining the importance of collective contributions in team success.