Zurich Crickets CC have done it again. For the second year in a row, the club’s U19 side has claimed the national title—an achievement that reflects not only individual talent but the depth, discipline and resilience that has become the team’s hallmark.
This year’s squad, many of whom already feature regularly in Zurich Crickets’ 1st and 2nd XIs in the Swiss Men’s League, entered the season with a quiet confidence. Under the calm, tactical leadership of captain Sahil Tarakhil, the team showed maturity well beyond their age group, blending technical skill with sharp match awareness.
A Strong Start With the Bat
Winning the toss, Zurich Crickets chose to bat first. Openers Fayez Marufkhel (31) and Sahil (35) provided the ideal foundation, rotating the strike smartly and punishing anything loose. Their partnership took the side to 75/2, setting the platform for an imposing total.
The momentum continued as Wali Mohammad (24) and Shankar Panguluri (37) accelerated the scoring rate. Their positive intent pushed the total to 154/5, and at that point ZCCC looked set for a total well above 200.
However, cricket has a habit of turning quickly. A sudden collapse saw the remaining five wickets fall for just 17 runs, and Zurich Crickets were bowled out for 171—a competitive but slightly below-par score considering the early promise.
Applying the Pressure With the Ball
Defending 171 required discipline, patience, and collective belief. Nomads Academy U19s began steadily, with Aqib (44) leading their chase and taking them to 73/2. But Zurich Crickets refused to let the pressure ease.
Captain Sahil once again led from the front, claiming 3/27 with clever variations and tight lines. Wali supported brilliantly with 2/27, while Hezbullah Barekzai, Arkan Pradeep, and Shankar each chipped in with a wicket to keep the innings in constant check.
Just as critical were the moments of brilliance in the field—moments that often separate champions from the rest.
Fielding Excellence: The Game-Changer
Two stunning run-outs, involving Shankar, Tasal Momand, and the lightning-quick wicketkeeper Abid Barekzai, shifted the momentum decisively in Zurich Crickets’ favour.
The catching was equally outstanding. Bashir Khaksar, Shankar, Wali, and Salman Halmi all held their nerve under pressure, taking clean, safe catches that dismantled Nomads Academy’s hopes of building partnerships. Every opportunity was snapped up—demonstrating that old cricketing truth: catches win matches.
A Season to Remember
This championship win is not just a reflection of one good match. It is the result of an entire season of consistent performances, hard training, and the growing strength of youth cricket at the club. With several U19 teams across Switzerland improving significantly, the league was more competitive than ever—but Zurich Crickets rose to the challenge, showing composure in tight moments and depth in all departments.
Retaining the title is a testament to the coaching staff, the players’ dedication, and the strong pathway that connects the junior ranks to senior cricket within the club.
Zurich Crickets CC can celebrate a well-deserved triumph—one that highlights a bright future for the club and Swiss junior cricket as a whole.
