Cricket can be so exhilarating, especially when it’s a close contest and nothing gets bigger than SMASH when we talk about a close contest. Smash 2024 held from 15 July to 22 September with 6 team competing for the most coveted title in North London concluded successfully last week with 15 thrilling matches and multiple outstanding performances. In this 2-month period we witnessed some of the finest cricketing talent from around the area, showcasing their skills, sportsmanship, and passion for the game with the Pipers franchise coming on top at the end of this spectacle.

New franchises in Afgan Bazan CC, Yaaran CC & Mathers GUNs exhibited great skills and brought drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. The talent on display was amazing and some of the performances with bat & ball, be it mind-blowing hard hitting from Hardik, Rohail, Toqueer & Jaypal to some serious pace bowling from Asif & Zain, all are going to the part of Smash’s folklore for years to come.

Tournament started with a bang both on the field and off it, when we had last year winners Ninjas take on the new franchise Mathers Guns in a closely fought (in literal sense !!) high scoring game that was to set the tempo for upcoming games, however had a damp ending with rain washing out both the semi-finals and finals. It was an ending no one expected but that once again exhibits our frailty in front of the mother nature.

Pipers with the virtue of topping the league stage and being an undefeated side throughout were declared worthy WINNERS of the SMASH 2024!!

Awards

Hardik Patel (Mathers GUNs) won the Batsman of the tournament wining KA sports £100 voucher.
Zain ul Abidin (Pipers) was named the bowler of the tournament receiving a box of 6 balls.
Yaaran CC were presented with a runners up voucher of £200.
Pipers were presented with a glittering trophy and £500 wining prize.

Team Highlights

Pipers under the astute leadership of Shoaib kept churning one win after another and were unbeatable in the group stages. It was a complete team performance from them with every individual chipping in with match winning performances when given a chance.

Yaaran CC made the most of the talent they had and were a closely knit unit who found various ways to come from behind and end up on winning side. The games involving them were the most fascinating ones and had everything in them that you need for a full masala movie – inning collapses, fightback, massive sixes, uprooted stumps, double trouble (two in one game) and game abandoned due to injuries (ambulance had to be called-in in one instance).

Afgan Bazans were the most thrilling side in the tournament. They had players suited for the format who love to go from ball 1 and there was some amazing hitting by their top order. We had loads of Rashid khan on display and some genuine quick bowling and were well laid by their captain who played a key role to keep them in the reckoning both with bat & ball.

Mathers GUNs brought in the flair that cricket needs and one you would go miles to watch & enjoy. Their youngsters were immensely talented and some of the shots left an imprint on the people watching. The sheer timing with which they hit the ball was a pure delight to watch. Only team that had sponsors, scorers, and owners travelling with them to all games. We loved this side a lot as they were the consistent spender in the bar !

Ninjas were the pale shadow of their previous years, and it reflected in their performances. After a good start they faded away only to finish at #5 but did exhibit the fighting quality every now and then during the tournament to show why they are most successful franchise of the league. Rehaul might be on the way with franchise owners dedicated to win the title back.

Mill Hill Strikers started the tournament well but were hampered by injuries, rain and unavailability which resulted in them finishing bottom of the pile. There were some close games which with bit of fortune could have easily gone their way and who knows the result could have been different. That said they showed great perseverance and spirit in the league and kept fighting till the end.

Smash 2024 was a resounding success just like the previous editions, thanks to the dedication and hard work of the players, organizers, and franchise owners. The tournament not only provided exciting cricket but also fostered sportsmanship and camaraderie among the teams. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the sponsors for their generous support, the team owners for coming forward and putting up the team, organizing committee for their planning and execution, the players and teams for their spirited performances. We look forward to the next edition of the tournament and hope to see even more participation and enthusiasm.

Rishi T/Vamsi