Jabalpur Royal Lions Secure Thrilling Win Against Gwalior Cheetahs in MPL T20

In an exhilarating match at Holkar Stadium, the Jabalpur Royal Lions edged past the Gwalior Cheetahs by three wickets in the MPL T20 Scindia Cup 2026. Chasing a target of 186, the Lions faced early challenges but a remarkable innings from Sanjog Nijjar, who scored 66 runs off 30 balls, led them to victory. The match showcased thrilling performances from both teams, with Punit Datey shining with the ball for the Lions. Discover how the game unfolded and the key moments that defined this exciting encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 22, 2026, 07:21 IST

Exciting Match at Holkar Stadium

Indore (Madhya Pradesh) [India], June 22: In a nail-biting encounter, the Jabalpur Royal Lions triumphed over the Gwalior Cheetahs by three wickets, successfully chasing a daunting target of 186 runs with just two balls remaining in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 held at Holkar Stadium on Sunday.

Gwalior Cheetahs set a formidable score of 185/5 in their allotted 20 overs. The opening pair of Kartik Parihar and Parth Chaudhary laid a solid foundation, contributing 36 runs before Parihar was dismissed for 15 runs off 17 balls. Chaudhary then partnered with Kuldeep Gehi, adding 30 runs to the total before falling for a quick 39 runs off 23 balls.

Gehi played a pivotal role in stabilizing the innings, receiving valuable support from captain Rajat Patidar, who has represented India in four international matches. Together, they forged a significant 80-run partnership for the third wicket, placing the Cheetahs in a strong position. Patidar, who had earlier benefited from a no-ball, scored 37 runs off 27 balls before being dismissed. Gehi finished with a commendable 57 runs off 39 balls, while Arpit Patel added a quickfire 21 runs off 12 balls to boost the total.

Punit Datey emerged as the key bowler for the Jabalpur Royal Lions, delivering an impressive spell of 1/23 in four overs.

In their chase, the Royal Lions faced early setbacks, losing wickets frequently and finding themselves at 86/5 in the 12th over, including the departure of their top scorer, Ajay Rohera.

With the match hanging in the balance, Rahul Batham and Sanjog Nijjar joined forces to stabilize the innings. They formed a crucial 61-run partnership, reducing the target to 50 runs needed from the last four overs. Batham's innings ended due to a mix-up with Nijjar, resulting in his run-out for 21 runs off 16 balls, leaving the Lions needing 39 runs from the final 20 balls.

Nijjar, however, remained composed and took control of the chase. The required runs dwindled to 30 from the last three overs and then just 11 from the final two. Despite another setback with Datey being run out for 14 runs off 9 balls, Nijjar ensured a smooth finish.

The right-handed batsman played a remarkable unbeaten innings of 66 runs off just 30 balls, leading the Jabalpur Royal Lions to victory and marking a strong comeback after consecutive losses in the tournament.

Reflecting on his performance and the team's success, Sanjog expressed gratitude, stating, “I’m thankful to God for the chance to bat in such a setting. The franchise and management showed immense faith in me, which boosted my confidence. Believing in oneself is crucial for success. I appreciate everyone who supported me.”

He added, “The strategy was straightforward: watch the ball and play accordingly. I focused on staying calm, breathing well, and maintaining clear intentions. We always emphasize positive intent, and when your mindset is right, things tend to align.”