HAVERFORD, Pa. - The Haverford College Cricket team began its season on Saturday, September 7, 2024, with a dominant nine-wicket win over Merion Cricket Club. The match showcased the talent and depth of Haverford's squad as they comfortably chased down a challenging target on Cope Field. 

Merion Cricket Club won the toss and elected to bat first, putting up a total of 163 runs for seven wickets in their allotted 30 overs. John Keenon and Shyam Kunder anchored the innings with solid performances, scoring 40 and 46 runs, respectively. The pair built a crucial partnership that kept Merion in the game, but Haverford's bowlers were up to the task. Sidd Phatak led the attack with precision, taking three wickets and putting pressure on Merion's batting lineup. Sanil Kagalwala also contributed significantly, claiming a pair of wickets to ensure the opposition did not run away with the score.

In response, Haverford's innings got off to a shaky start as they lost their first wicket with only five runs on the board. However, Captain Sidd Phatak, who had already excelled with the ball, partnered with first-year Nihaal Kochar to stabilize the innings. The duo put on a masterclass in batting, constructing a formidable partnership that took the score to 138. Phatak retired after reaching a personal milestone of 54 runs. 

Following Phatak's retirement, Kochar, unfazed by the situation, continued his exceptional debut performance. Joined by Deep Patel, Kocher played with flair and control, driving Haverford towards their target. The pair showcased great composure and skill, comfortably guiding their team to victory in the 22nd over without the loss of any further wickets.

Nihaal Kochar's brilliant innings of 68 not out in his first match for Haverford College earned him the well-deserved title of Man of the Match. His performance laid a strong foundation for Haverford's chase and secured a memorable win.