A magical one-handed catch highlighted Malaysia's Virandeep Singh's professional debut for the Chitwan Tigers in the Everest Premier League (EPL) in Kathmandu on Friday.
Chitwan, unbeaten in their first two matches, had needed victory to confirm their spot in the knockout stage, and in their way was Binod Bhandari, the captain of opposing team, Pokhara Rhinos.
Bhandari came into the crease with the responsibility of posting a huge total, but he was out after five runs when Virandeep made a superb diving catch from 27 metres off Chitwan captain Sompal Kami's bowling.
Virandeep, fired up after removing the Pokhara dangerman, caught Lokash Bam (eight runs) off Shahab Alam's bowling.
Pokhara could only post 123 runs for seven wickets. Chitwan chased down the target of 124 runs in just 16.4 overs to register a nine-wicket win.
The victory was the kind of dream start that Virandeep was hoping for, and he was even awarded the "Magic Moment of the Match" plaque by the EPL.
"I could not have imagined a better start in a franchised league. I missed out on the first two matches but I took my chances and contributed to Chitwan's win with that memorable one-handed catch," said Virandeep.
"This has spurred me to continue to do well for Chitwan.
"I did not get to bat as Chitwan chased down the target by losing just one wicket. I hope to get the chance of playing in the knockout stage which would be a different experience altogether."
Chitwan also fielded Virandeep for Sunday's match against Lalitpur Patriots, and they won by five wickets. No catches from Virandeep this time but he batted and scored 13 runs in 19 balls. The allrounder was also given one over to bowl where he conceded eight runs.
He was rested in the final round robin match against Bhairahawa Gladiators yesterday but the Malaysian could be in the mix when the knockout stage begins on Wednesday.
The EPL was an eye-opening experience for Virandeep who feels that Malaysian cricketers are not too far off when it comes to skills and potential.
"Our skills are as good as them, even better compared to younger cricketers. The only difference is the exposure they get in this region by playing in EPL and other leagues," he added.
