The Women’s Challenger Trophy 2018-19 began on a remarkable note as India Blue team staged a brilliant comeback to score a victory over India Red side. 

India Blue claimed an unlikely victory, overhauling India Red’s rather modest total of 129, after being reduced to 24/8 at one stage at the Devineni Venkata Ramana Praneetha Ground, Mulapadu on Thursday.

India Red, led by India international Shikha Pandey, opted to bat first but managed only 129 runs in 45 overs. For India Blue, Reema Lakshmi Ekka claimed 2/26 while Tanuja Kanwer got 2/20. 

Chasing the target, India Blue were dealt early blows by right-arm medium pacer Komal Zanzad (3/12) and left-arm spinner Radha Yadav (3/26). Off-spinner Tarannum Pathan also took one wicket as India Blue found themselves at 24/8.

Incredible finish in the first game of the #ChallengerTrophy as India Blue recover from 24-8 to chase down India Red's 129. #IndRedvIndBlue pic.twitter.com/PHuFUKKk6q

— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) January 3, 2019

However, 21-year-old Manali Dakshini, who came at No.8, batted with Tanuja Kanwer to add 56 runs for the ninth wicket. India Blue were 82/9 after Kanwer (19) departed off Pathan in the 35th over. Dakshini and Ekka then forged a match-winning stand of 48 runs. Reema Lakshmi Ekka scored 29 not out while Dakshini remained unbeaten on 49 as India Blue beat India Red by one wicket and 25 balls to spare.