New Jersey Defend U15 Nationals Title With Last-Ball Thriller

The New Jersey U15 cricket team proved once again why they’re the side to beat, lifting the U15 Nationals trophy for the second straight year. Their journey to the title wasn’t just about dominance it was about nerve, resilience, and clutch moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Opening Statement Against North Carolina

The campaign began against North Carolina, where New Jersey set the tone. After winning the toss and batting first, they put up 197 runs in 40 overs. Raghav Lakshmanan smashed 44 off 39 balls, while Aarav Patel held the innings together with 35 off 55.

Defending the total, the bowlers were ruthless. Siddhith Krishna ripped through the batting order with 4 wickets in just 6 overs, sealing a 88-run win and picking up the Man of the Match award.

Match 2: Double Super Over Drama

The second match against Bay Area Regional turned into an instant classic. After a tie in regulation play, the game went into not one, but two Super Overs. In the second Super Over, New Jersey held their nerve to snatch a famous win, keeping their unbeaten run alive.

Match 3: Balanced Win Over Missouri

Facing Missouri U15, New Jersey once again leaned on their bowling strength. Missouri were bowled out for 124 in 39 overs, with Armaan Ramchandani, Thaman Dilip, and Raj Parikh each striking twice.

The chase wasn’t flashy but steady, as New Jersey crossed the line with 4 wickets in hand. Rehan Behra’s all-round effort 17 runs and a wicket earned him the Man of the Match. 

The Final: Last-Ball Six Seals Glory

The grand final against Bay Area Regional was the ultimate see-saw battle. Bay Area posted 160/8 in 40 overs, with Raghav Lakshmanan again the standout bowler, taking 4/23 in 7 overs.

The chase was tense from start to finish. With 10 runs needed off the final over, New Jersey’s hopes rested on Lakshmanan once more. On the very last ball, he launched a six to seal the win, sparking wild celebrations. His unbeaten 58 runs with 5 boundaries, along with his bowling heroics, earned him Player of the Match.

Tournament Standouts

Most Valuable Player of the Tournament: Raghav Lakshmanan

Best Wicketkeeper of the Tournament: Aarav Patel

The Man Behind the Success: Coach Shailesh Nakashe

Much of New Jersey’s success comes down to the steady guidance of Coach Shailesh Nakashe, who has been at the helm for both national title wins. Under his leadership, the team has built a culture of discipline, teamwork, and fearless cricket.

Winning two national championships in a row is no small feat, and Nakashe’s influence has been crucial in helping the players believe in themselves and deliver under pressure. His role in shaping young talent like Raghav Lakshmanan, Aarav Patel, and Siddhith Krishna has made him one of the most respected youth coaches in the U.S. cricket circuit.

Champions Again

From Siddhith Krishna’s fiery spell in the opener to the double Super Over win, and the last-ball six in the final, this campaign had it all. New Jersey didn’t just defend their title they built a legacy, proving they can win big, win close, and win under pressure.