The Malayali Premier League (MPL) Season 8 in the UAE was a landmark edition. It featured a unique trophy, a record-breaking cash prize, and a women’s league. With an IPL-style playoff system, the competition reached new levels of intensity and excitement.
CSS Group Alleppey Ripples showcased resilience and power-packed performances throughout the tournament. From the league matches to the playoffs, they displayed strategic gameplay, impeccable teamwork, and unmatched passion, ultimately claiming the championship.
MPL: A Decade of Passion and Cricket
Founded 11 years ago, MPL has grown into a professional T20 league for talented Malayali players in the UAE. Season 8 featured eight teams competing in 20 electrifying matches, leading to an epic Gold Final. “This season has taken MPL to new heights,” said Shabu Sultan, one of the league’s directors.
The Grand Showdown: CSS Group Alleppey Ripples vs. Adams Blue Kallambalam Brothers
The much-anticipated Gold Final occurred on January 26, 2025, at DC Stadium Oval 2, Dubai. The Adams Blue Kallambalam Brothers won the toss and opted to bat first, hoping to set a formidable total.
The Adams Blue Kallambalam Brothers got a shaky start, losing early wickets and struggling to build partnerships. Despite a brief resurgence in the middle overs, they could not post a competitive total. Their innings were marked by inconsistent batting and relentless pressure from the CSS Group Alleppey Ripples’ bowlers.
Anoop GS shone for the Kallambalam Brothers, smashing 25 off 16 balls with four boundaries and two sixes. The team faltered despite a crucial 50-run fifth-wicket stand with Vishnu Sukumaran (15). CSS Group Alleppey Ripples’ bowlers dominated, bundling them out for 114 in 16.5 overs, sealing a commanding victory.
CSS Group Alleppey Ripples Dominance with the Ball
The bowlers of CSS Group Alleppey Ripples delivered an exceptional performance, dismantling the opposition with precision. Nipun Babu led the charge, claiming three wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate of just 5.74 runs per over. Supporting him, Junaid Shamsu and Athul Raveendran took two wickets each, further restricting the run flow and tightening their grip on the match. With the target set at 115, CSS Group Alleppey Ripples confidently stepped onto the field.
The Chase: A Masterclass in Batting
CSS Group Alleppey Ripples wasted no time in asserting their dominance with the bat. They chased the target in 12.5 overs, securing a convincing 8-wicket victory.
Fazal Oasis led the charge with a spectacular 51 off 38 balls, smashing six boundaries and a six while maintaining an impressive strike rate of 127.50. Albin Alias provided solid support, contributing a quick 22 runs off 14 balls. The team set a brisk pace for victory, reaching 50 runs in just 5.4 overs, laying a strong foundation for success.
Victory Moments
The winning runs came in the 12.5th over, marking a dominant performance by CSS Group Alleppey Ripples. The match ended at 9:00 PM, with CSS Group Alleppey Ripples finishing at 118/2, celebrating a well-earned title victory.
The CSS Group Alleppey Ripples’ victory in the MPL Season 8 Gold Final resulted from their all-round excellence and strategic execution. Captain Renjith Mani led by example, both with the balling, his exceptional fielding, and his decision-making on the field. His calm and composed approach under pressure was a significant factor in the team’s success. The Ripples had a well-balanced squad, with a mix of experienced players and young talent. This balance allowed them to adapt to different match situations effectively. The bowlers executed their plans perfectly, maintaining consistent lines and lengths and taking wickets regularly. The batters approached the chase with a clear strategy, blending aggression with caution to ensure a smooth victory.
The Heroes of the Night
Nipun Babu was the architect of CSS Group Alleppey Ripples’ bowling dominance, delivering a lethal spell of 3.5 overs, 3 wickets for 22 runs at an economy of 5.74, earning him the Player of the Match and Best Bowler awards. Fazal Oasis, the Best Batter, played a match-winning knock, anchoring the chase with a fearless 51-run innings.
A Season to Remember
Season 8 of MPL will be remembered for the intense competition and its innovative approach. The introduction of playoffs and high-quality matches has set a new benchmark for future seasons. MPL continues to be a prestigious platform for Malayali cricketers in the UAE. The excitement, passion, and sportsmanship displayed throughout the season reaffirm why MPL is a league like no other.
The MPL Season 8 has once again proven to be a platform for showcasing talent, fostering camaraderie, and providing fans with unforgettable cricketing moments. As the league continues to evolve, fans can look forward to more exciting matches and stellar performances in the seasons to come. Until next season, let’s keep the cricketing spirit alive!