The NECO Master Blaster Women's team has successfully advanced to the final of the Vidarbha Women's Premier League (VPL) 2026, achieving a hard-fought four-wicket victory against the Orange Tigresses during the Eliminator match held at the VCA Civil Lines Ground in Nagpur on Saturday.

Orange Tigresses Set a Challenging Target

Batting first, the Orange Tigresses managed to score a competitive total of 144 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 20 overs. Captain Disha Kasat led the charge with a remarkable 69 runs off 54 balls, featuring seven boundaries and three sixes. Wicketkeeper Riddhima Maradwar also played a significant role, contributing 48 runs from 43 balls, which helped establish a solid foundation for the team. Despite their efforts, NECO's bowlers effectively controlled the run rate, preventing the Tigresses from accelerating in the final overs.

NECO Triumphs in a Nail-Biting Finish

In response, the NECO Master Blaster Women successfully chased down the target, finishing at 147 runs for 6 wickets in just 19.4 overs, with two balls remaining. The chase was anchored by Shivani Dharne and Ashwini Deshmukh, who both played crucial innings under pressure. Dharne scored 52 runs off 46 balls, while Deshmukh added 51 runs from 46 deliveries. Their partnership was vital in keeping NECO on track despite losing wickets at regular intervals.

The match took a dramatic turn when both set batswomen were dismissed, but Arya Gohane stepped up with a vital cameo, scoring an unbeaten 24 runs off just 10 balls, including two fours and two sixes. Her explosive performance shifted the momentum in favor of NECO, leading them to victory.

For the Orange Tigresses, Janhvi Ranganathan stood out with the ball, taking two important wickets, while the fielding unit contributed with crucial breakthroughs. Nevertheless, NECO maintained their composure in the final moments to clinch the win.

Anticipation Builds for the Final

With this victory, the NECO Master Blaster Women are set to face the India Warriors in the VPL 2026 final on Sunday, aiming to secure the prestigious championship trophy.