Ganpat Bhuvad XI Edge Ahead on First-Innings Lead to Lift the Trophy

The U-16 Tukaram Surve Cricket Tournament 2025 final turned into a slow-burn thriller that felt straight out of a long-format classic. Ganpat Bhuvad XI and Sadashiv Satghare pushed each other deep across two days, but Ganpat Bhuvad XI held their nerve to lift the title by a narrow first-innings lead.

Ganpat Bhuvad XI chose to bat first and made it clear they were ready for a long stay. The innings didn’t have fireworks, but it had patience, discipline, and two boys who batted like they were made for red-ball cricket. Dhruvshil Hire anchored the top order with a solid 58 off 123 deliveries. At the other end, Smit Pomendkar dug in for 128 balls to craft a valuable 50, showing the temperament coaches dream of in youth cricket.

Their partnership and approach helped the team post 195 in 79 overs, a total that looked modest on paper but proved decisive once the pitch began to tire.

Sadashiv Satghare replied with determination, but Ganpat Bhuvad XI never let them settle. The breakthrough moment came courtesy of Smit Pomendkar again this time in the field. His sharp run out broke a developing stand and tilted the game. Sadashiv Satghare eventually folded for 155, giving Ganpat Bhuvad XI a 40-run first-innings lead.

Day two was more about survival and control. Ganpat Bhuvad XI returned to add 44 crucial runs, stretching their advantage and sealing the title on the back of that hard-earned first-innings cushion.

What this really means is that while many players contributed, the final belonged to Smit Pomendkar. A half-century built on patience, a game-changing run out, and the calm presence he showed throughout the match made him the heartbeat of the champions’ campaign.

Ganpat Bhuvad XI walk away with the trophy, but Smit walks away as the name everyone will remember from this final.