HAVERFORD, Pa. - Haverford College cricket got off to a strong start in the opening match of the Philadelphia International Cricket Festival against visiting team Toronto Cricket Club on Cope Field Thursday afternoon. 

Toronto won the toss and chose to bat first, scoring 109 runs in their 20 overs. Kartik Kumar and Graham Castanheiro were the only batters to make significant contributions, scoring 25 and 17 runs, respectively.

Ishpuneet Singh bowled exceptionally well, taking four wickets for just nine runs. Mohanish Bajaj and Agastya Singh each took one wicket, giving up 16 and 14 runs, respectively.

In reply, Haverford chased down the target with ease, reaching 110 for the loss of only one wicket in the 10th over. Sidd Phatak and Nihaal Kochar batted beautifully, scoring 39 and 40 not out. Agastya Singh also contributed with a solid 12 not out.

Haverford won the match by reaching the target in just half of the allotted 20 overs, placing them at the top of the standings on the opening day of the Cricket Festival.

The Fords return to action on Friday with a pair of matches on Cope Field. First up is Mad Dogs Cricket Club (Conn.) at noon followed by Cavaliers (Mass.) at 3:15 p.m.