Sports

Crowe clinch Auditor’s Cup 2025 after finale

EY captain receives the runners-up trophy.
 
EY captain receives the runners-up trophy.

MUSCAT: The 23rd edition of the Auditor’s Cup 2025 concluded in spectacular fashion at the Al Amerat Cricket Grounds in Oman, with Crowe securing the prestigious title after a gripping final against EY. The tournament brought together eight competitive teams, delivering excitement, emotion and standout performances especially during the matches held between December 1 and 3.
This year’s edition saw new entrants BAF Oman impress the crowd and competitors alike. Despite being newcomers, they powered their way into the eliminator round and ultimately finished as second runners-up, marking one of the tournament’s most remarkable storylines.
In the championship match, EY won the toss and elected to bat first, posting a competitive 59 runs in 6 overs for the loss of five wickets. Issa al Balushi stood out as EY’s top performer with a resilient 21 runs.
Crowe’s chase began shakily with the early dismissal of star all-rounder Balakrishnan Nair. But Ivan Manjila stepped up magnificently, anchoring the innings with a match-winning 28 runs off 18 balls, earning him recognition as the tournament’s best batter. Supporting the effort, all-rounder Nasfatullah delivered a power-packed cameo, striking at a 200 strike rate, smashing two sixes and contributing a crucial wicket with the ball.
Crowe sealed victory in 5.4 overs, claiming the title for the third time, a testament to their continued excellence and competitive dominance.
INDIVIDUAL HONOURS
A series of individual honours highlighted the exceptional talent on display, with the player of the tournament hitting twice as many sixes as the player with the second-most sixes.
The awards are as follows: Player of the Tournament: Omar Sarfraz (EY); Best Bowler: Pankaj Gupta (BAF); Best Batter: Ivan Manjila (Crowe); Best Wicketkeeper: Prakshit (BAF); Maximum 6s – Omar Sarfraz (EY); Best Dressed Team: Moore Oman and Special Recognition: Farid Sheikh (Deloitte) for being the most friendly and supportive participant.
The tournament's atmosphere was further elevated by an energizing DJ A&A performance, while guests enjoyed hot and delicious cuisine curated by Beyond Kitchen & Pakistan Palace Restaurant. The smooth execution of the event was made possible by the professional coordination of Jazz Boys Sports.
With spirited competition, memorable individual displays and enthusiastic participation from players and guests alike, the Auditor’s Cup 2025 secured its reputation as one of the most eagerly anticipated sporting events in Oman’s corporate cricket calendar. The tournament lived up to its reputation with outstanding performances across the board and an atmosphere of sportsmanship.