KIIT Hosting International University Bilateral Cricket Series; Australia Win First T20

Bhubaneswar: Australia edged past India by 5 runs in the first T20 match of the International University Bilateral Cricket Series at KIIT cricket stadium here on Monday.

The series — organised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), KIIT-DU and Odisha Cricket Association — was inaugurated by KIIT and KISS founder Dr Achyuta Samanta.

Players picked from various universities in India and Australia are competing in the series, which KIIT is hosting for the first time. As hosts, KIIT is providing accommodation and hospitality for all the players, coaches and officials.

Among dignitaries who graced the inaugural ceremony were Professor Baljit Singh Sekhon, Joint Secretary (Sports) of AIU; David Anton Sambood, Executive Member of the International University Sports Federation and Chair of University Sports Australia; and Dr Gaganendu Dash, DG, Sports at KIIT.

Australia, who were asked to bat first, posted 149 in 19.4 overs. The visitors restricted India to 144/7 in a close finish, with Australian team captain Kavvy Saini adjudged Man of the Match.

The teams will play two T20 games on Tuesday – from 9.30 am and 5.30 pm – followed by a 50-over match on December 5.