U23 One-Day Trophy: Odisha edge Bengal by one-wicket after Suchismita, Ananya heroics

Pune: Odisha pulled off a thrilling one-wicket victory over Bengal in the Women’s U23 One-Day Trophy 2025-26 match at the Veerangan Cricket Academy Ground here on Monday, while chasing down a target of 207 with just three balls to spare.

After winning the toss, Bengal elected to bat first and posted 206 all out in 48.4 overs. The innings was anchored by Sujata Dey, who scored a steady 55 off 72 balls, hitting seven boundaries. She found support from Priyanka Goldar, who contributed 47 from 77 deliveries with five fours as Bengal attempted to build partnerships in the middle overs.

However, Odisha’s bowlers kept striking at crucial moments to prevent Bengal from accelerating. S B Lorence was the standout performer with the ball, finishing with 3 for 32 in her 10 overs, including two maidens. Jyoti K Prasad also impressed, claiming 3 for 45 in 10 overs to restrict Bengal to a manageable total.

Chasing 207 for victory, Odisha faced a testing task but found stability through a crucial partnership in the middle order. Suchismita Panda played the defining innings of the match, remaining unbeaten on 85 off 101 balls, studded with 12 boundaries. Her calm approach under pressure kept Odisha in the hunt throughout the chase.

She received valuable support from Ananya Mishra, who scored 61 from 96 balls, hitting six fours. The duo stitched together a vital stand that brought Odisha back into the contest after early setbacks.

Bengal’s bowlers fought hard to keep the match alive. Riya Kumari Mahato led the attack with 3 for 37 in 9 overs, while Rupal Tiwari chipped in with 2 for 47 in 9.2 overs, ensuring the contest went down to the wire.

Despite losing wickets at regular intervals towards the end, Odisha held their nerve, with Panda guiding the chase to 210 for 9 in 47.2 overs, sealing a thrilling one-wicket win.