The grand finale of the KSCA Maharaja Trophy T20 2025 lived up to its billing with a mix of high-octane cricket, nail-biting moments, and the unpredictable twist of rain.
In the end, it was the Mangaluru Dragons who held their nerves and lifted the glittering trophy, defeating Hubli Tigers via the VJD method at the Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Stadium.
This triumph marked a historic moment for the Dragons, who bounced back strongly after setbacks earlier in the tournament, including a heavy defeat against the same opponents in the qualifier.
Hubli Tigers Set a Competitive Target
Winning the toss, Hubli Tigers chose to bat first on a sporting Mysore track. Their innings was anchored by the dependable Krishnan Shrijith, who showcased patience and determination with a well-crafted 52 off 45 balls. He played the sheet-anchor role while others looked to accelerate.
The Tigers’ opening batter Mohammed Taha provided fireworks early on, smashing 27 off just 15 balls, ensuring the scoreboard ticked quickly. However, regular wickets prevented Hubli from building momentum.
The final push never really came, as Mangaluru’s spinners tightened the grip in the middle overs. The Tigers eventually finished with 154/8 in their 20 overs, a fighting score but not a daunting one given the batting depth of the Dragons.
Credit for restricting Hubli goes largely to the Dragons’ bowlers. Sachin Shinde was the star with the ball, delivering a match-winning spell of 3/28. His variations and control broke the back of the Tigers’ middle order.
Supporting him brilliantly were Macneil Noronha (2/25) and Shreevathsa Acharya (2/30), who ensured the run-rate never spiraled out of control. Their combined effort restricted Hubli from breaching the 170-run mark, which could have been more challenging given the conditions.
Mangaluru’s Chase Interrupted by Rain
Chasing 155, the Mangaluru Dragons’ openers came out with clear intent. Sharath BR, the dynamic batter, was in sublime touch as he smashed boundaries at will.
He scored a quickfire 49 off 35 balls, falling just short of a well-deserved half-century. His aggressive start set the tone for the chase.
Partner Lochan Gowda contributed 18 runs, giving the team a steady start. At 85/2 in 10.4 overs, the Dragons were cruising when the skies opened up and heavy rain interrupted play.
With no possibility of resumption, the VJD method came into play, and calculations showed the Dragons were 15 runs ahead of the par score. That was enough to hand them the Maharaja Trophy 2025 winner title.
Scorecard Summary – Maharaja Trophy 2025 Final
| Team | Score | Top Performer |
|---|---|---|
| Hubli Tigers | 154/8 (20 overs) | Shrijith 52, Taha 27 |
| Mangaluru Dragons | 85/2 (10.4 overs, rain stopped play) | Sharath BR 49, Gowda 18 |
| Bowling Stars | Sachin Shinde 3/28, Noronha 2/25, Acharya 2/30 | |
| Result | Dragons won via VJD method by 15 runs | Champions |
This Final Will Be Remembered
- High Drama: The game had everything—early fireworks, clever bowling, rain delays, and a thrilling finish.
- Redemption for Dragons: After suffering a massive 110-run loss to Hubli in the qualifier, Mangaluru bounced back when it mattered most.
- Heroic Performances: Shinde’s spin magic and Sharath’s fearless batting turned the tide in Dragons’ favor.
- Rain’s Role: The weather may have cut the game short, but it only added to the drama of the grand finale.
Maharaja Trophy History: Winners & Runners List from All Seasons
| Year | Winner | Runner UP |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Mangaluru Dragons | Hubli Tigers |
| 2024 | Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters | Mysuru Warriors |
| 2023 | Mysuru Warriors | Hubli Tigers |
| 2022 | Bengaluru Blasters | Gulbarga Mystics |
Complete List of Maharaja Trophy Champions and Runners List (2022 to 2025)
In Short:
The KSCA Maharaja Trophy 2025 Final proved why cricket is often called a game of glorious uncertainties. The Mangaluru Dragons, with their fearless batting, disciplined bowling, and never-say-die spirit, emerged as deserving champions.
For the fans in Mysore and across Karnataka, this final was a festival of cricket—an emotional rollercoaster that crowned the Dragons as kings of the season.
As the celebrations continue in the Mangaluru camp, one thing is certain—their victory will be remembered as one of the most thrilling and dramatic finishes in Maharaja Trophy history.
