Pakyong, April 12: Mizoram’s Under-23 women’s cricket team scripted a memorable triumph by emerging champions of the North East Cricket Development Council (NECDC) Under-23 Women’s Inter-State Tournament 2026, defeating Nagaland by seven runs in a thrilling final at the Sikkim Cricket Ground in Pakyong on Saturday.
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| Mizoram Under-23 women’s cricket team celebrates after defeating Nagaland to win the NECDC Women’s Inter-State Tournament 2026 at Sikkim Cricket Ground in Pakyong.(Image: DIO Pakyong) |
The victory marks a significant achievement for women’s cricket in Mizoram and highlights the growing strength of the state’s young cricketers on the regional stage. Throughout the tournament, the Mizoram team displayed determination, discipline, and consistency, culminating in a hard-fought victory in the championship match.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Mizoram faced a disciplined Nagaland bowling attack and managed to score 75 runs in their allotted 20 overs. While the total appeared modest, the team remained confident in its bowling unit’s ability to defend the target.
In reply, Nagaland began cautiously but struggled to build partnerships against Mizoram’s disciplined bowling attack. The bowlers maintained constant pressure, restricting scoring opportunities and claiming wickets at regular intervals. Nagaland were eventually bowled out for 68 runs in 17.5 overs, falling short by seven runs and handing Mizoram a memorable victory.
The standout performer of the final was Mizoram captain Hmangaihsangi Syhlo, who delivered an exceptional all-round display. Leading from the front, she claimed four wickets for 15 runs, dismantling Nagaland’s batting lineup and earning the Player of the Match award. Her performance proved decisive in securing the title for Mizoram.
Syhlo’s contributions throughout the tournament were equally impressive. She finished as the tournament’s Highest Scorer and was also named Player of the Tournament after accumulating 100 runs and taking seven wickets across the competition. Her leadership and consistent performances played a pivotal role in Mizoram’s successful campaign.
Other bowlers also made important contributions in the final. Zothansangi Sangi and Lalnunmawii each claimed two wickets, providing crucial breakthroughs and helping restrict Nagaland’s chase.
Meanwhile, Mizoram’s Roma Subba emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, finishing with an impressive 11 wickets, further underlining the depth and effectiveness of the state’s bowling attack.
The tournament was organised by the Sikkim Cricket Association under the aegis of the North East Cricket Development Council (NECDC) and was held from April 6 to April 11. Teams from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim participated in the competition, providing a platform for young cricketers from across the region to showcase their talent.
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Mizoram’s title-winning performance is expected to provide a major boost to women’s cricket in the state and inspire more young girls to take up the sport. Sports enthusiasts and cricket officials have hailed the achievement as a testament to the dedication of the players, coaches, and support staff who worked tirelessly throughout the tournament.
The championship victory not only adds another sporting accolade to Mizoram’s growing list of achievements but also reflects the steady progress of women’s cricket in the Northeast region. With several players delivering standout performances, the future looks promising for Mizoram’s emerging cricket talent.
