The inaugural International Masters League concluded with a spectacular display of cricket as Sachin Tendulkar’s India Masters defeated Brian Lara’s West Indies Masters by 6 wickets in a riveting final at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. The match, played on March 16, 2025, showcased vintage performances from cricket legends, with Ambati Rayudu’s magnificent 74 spearheading India’s successful chase of West Indies’ 148-run target with 17 balls to spare. Beyond the runs and wickets, the final offered cricket enthusiasts a nostalgic journey, witnessing their heroes from yesteryears competing with the same passion and skill that once made them household names across the cricketing world.
The Road to the Final: Two Titans Emerge
The journey to the final showcased why these two teams deserved their place in the championship match. Both teams displayed consistent performances throughout the tournament, establishing themselves as the cream of the competition.
India Masters’ Dominant Campaign
The India Masters, captained by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, had been in phenomenal form throughout the tournament. Their path to the final was nothing short of dominant, particularly evidenced by their semifinal performance against Australia Masters. In that crucial knockout game, India posted an imposing 220 runs, with Yuvraj Singh contributing a blistering 59 off just 30 deliveries. Tendulkar himself had chipped in with a well-crafted 42 runs.
Their bowling was equally impressive in the semifinal, with left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem claiming four wickets as they bowled out the Australians for a mere 126, securing a comprehensive 94-run victory. Throughout the tournament, India’s batting lineup demonstrated remarkable depth, while their bowling attack consistently delivered under pressure.
Yuvraj Singh had been a standout performer with the bat throughout the tournament, amassing 166 runs at an impressive strike rate of 193.02. Complementing the batting firepower, Pawan Negi had been India’s leading wicket-taker with 8 wickets from five matches, showcasing his all-round abilities that made him a critical component of Tendulkar’s squad.
West Indies Masters’ Resilient Journey
The West Indies Masters, led by the elegant Brian Lara, had their own impressive campaign, though not without challenges. They suffered two defeats in the league stage – one against Sri Lanka Masters by 21 runs and another against India Masters by 7 runs. However, they demonstrated tremendous resilience and fighting spirit by reversing their fortunes in the semifinal.
In a nail-biting semifinal against Sri Lanka Masters, West Indies secured a narrow six-run victory, showing their ability to handle pressure situations. Their batting had been bolstered by Lendl Simmons, who accumulated 294 runs before the final at an exceptional average of 98. Their bowling attack was spearheaded by the experienced Ravi Rampaul, who had claimed nine wickets from four matches before the final.
The previous encounter between these two finalists during the league stage had seen India emerge victorious by 7 runs, setting the stage for an intriguing rematch with the championship on the line.
Pre-Match Atmosphere: Legends Converge in Raipur
The atmosphere at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium was electric hours before the first ball was bowled. With approximately 48,000 spectators filling the venue and thousands more attempting to enter, the inaugural IML final had captured the imagination of cricket enthusiasts. The prospect of watching two of cricket’s greatest batsmen – Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara – leading their respective teams in a championship match was a rare treat that transcended the typical sporting contest.
The evening conditions in Raipur were perfect for cricket, with temperatures in the low thirties (Celsius) and no threat of rain to interrupt proceedings. The pitch appeared to be slightly on the slower side but offered true bounce, promising a balanced contest between bat and ball. Both teams had carefully analyzed the conditions during their warm-up sessions, understanding that adaptability would be crucial on this surface.
The Toss and Teams: Strategic Decisions
When the captains walked out for the toss, there was a palpable sense of nostalgia as two of cricket’s greatest icons stood at the center of the field. Brian Lara won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision possibly influenced by the success rate of teams batting first at this venue and the potential for the pitch to slow down in the second innings.
Both teams fielded their strongest possible lineups for this crucial encounter:
India Masters opted for a well-balanced XI: Ambati Rayudu (wicketkeeper), Sachin Tendulkar (captain), Pawan Negi, Yuvraj Singh, Stuart Binny, Yusuf Pathan, Irfan Pathan, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Vinay Kumar, Shahbaz Nadeem, and Dhawal Kulkarni.
The West Indies Masters countered with their own formidable lineup: Dwayne Smith, William Perkins, Lendl Simmons, Brian Lara (captain), Chadwick Walton, Denesh Ramdin (wicketkeeper), Ashley Nurse, Tino Best, Jerome Taylor, Sulieman Benn, and Ravi Rampaul.
The selection of both teams reflected a balance between explosive batting, all-round capabilities, and specialized bowling options – essential components for success in the T20 format.
West Indies Masters’ Innings: Simmons and Smith Lead the Charge
As the floodlights illuminated the Raipur stadium, Dwayne Smith and William Perkins strode out to the middle to open the batting for West Indies Masters. India’s new ball pair of Vinay Kumar and Dhawal Kulkarni looked to make early inroads, recognizing the importance of containing the explosive West Indian batting lineup.
Smith began in trademark fashion, looking to play his shots from the outset. His aggressive intent was evident as he targeted the boundaries with his powerful stroke-play. The opening partnership, however, was short-lived as Vinay Kumar struck the first blow for India. Perkins attempted a forceful shot but could only manage to find Pawan Negi, who completed a straightforward catch. The celebration from Vinay Kumar indicated the importance of this early breakthrough.
With the score at 34/1, Lendl Simmons joined Smith at the crease, and the pair began to construct a crucial partnership. Smith continued his aggressive approach, punishing any loose deliveries, particularly when the Indian bowlers erred in their length. He showcased his immense power, launching a massive six that cleared the boundary with ease, much to the delight of the West Indian dugout.
Simmons complemented Smith perfectly, displaying a mix of conventional and innovative stroke-play. He was particularly severe on anything short, using the pace of the bowlers to find the boundaries. The pair accelerated during the middle overs, putting pressure back on the Indian bowlers who were searching for another breakthrough.
Smith looked set for a big score but fell short of his half-century, departing for a well-constructed 45 off 35 balls. His dismissal slowed the West Indies’ momentum temporarily, but Simmons took on the responsibility of anchoring the innings. He reached his fifty with a magnificent stroke, showcasing the form that had made him the tournament’s leading run-scorer.
Captain Brian Lara’s entry to the crease was met with a standing ovation from the crowd. However, the maestro couldn’t make a significant impact as India’s bowlers tightened their grip on the innings. The West Indies batting lineup struggled to maintain the momentum established by Smith and Simmons, losing wickets at crucial intervals.
Simmons’ valiant effort of 57 runs provided the backbone of the West Indies innings, but regular wickets prevented them from launching a final assault in the death overs. Vinay Kumar was the standout bowler for India, claiming three crucial wickets with his clever variations and precise execution. Shahbaz Nadeem provided excellent support, picking up two wickets with his crafty left-arm spin.
The West Indies Masters ultimately posted 148/7 in their allotted 20 overs – a competitive total on this surface but perhaps 15-20 runs short of what they would have aimed for. The disciplined bowling performance from India, particularly in the latter stages of the innings, had restricted the West Indians and given the chase a manageable complexion.
India Masters’ Chase: Rayudu Steals the Show
Chasing 149 for victory, India Masters opened with Ambati Rayudu and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. The crowd erupted as Tendulkar took guard, eager to witness the master blaster in action once more. The opening pair started cautiously against the new ball pair of Ravi Rampaul and Jerome Taylor, respecting the quality of the West Indian pacers.
The first boundary came when Rayudu capitalized on a fuller delivery, driving it elegantly through the covers. This set the tone for his innings as he gradually shifted gears, displaying a perfect blend of aggression and measured batting. Tendulkar, meanwhile, rolled back the years with some trademark shots, including a magnificent straight drive that had the crowd on their feet.
The opening partnership gathered momentum during the powerplay, with both batsmen finding the boundaries with increasing regularity. Tendulkar delighted the crowd with a classic upper cut for six, reminiscent of his prime years when he dominated bowlers across the globe. The shot drew comparisons to his famous six against Shoaib Akhtar in the 2003 World Cup.
Just as the partnership was flourishing, Tendulkar was dismissed for a well-compiled 25 off 18 balls, finding the fielder in the deep while attempting another aggressive shot. His innings, though brief, was filled with nostalgic moments that reminded everyone of his enduring class. India’s score stood at 67/1, with Tendulkar’s dismissal bringing Pawan Negi to the crease.
Rayudu continued his sublime form, reaching his half-century with an audacious scoop shot that raced to the boundary. His innings was characterized by excellent shot selection and placement, finding gaps in the field with remarkable consistency. The right-hander’s experience shone through as he paced his innings perfectly, understanding when to accelerate and when to rotate the strike.
The middle phase of the chase witnessed a dramatic moment that added spice to the encounter. A heated exchange erupted between Yuvraj Singh and Tino Best, requiring the intervention of West Indies captain Brian Lara. The incident began when Best attempted to leave the field citing injury concerns after completing his over. Yuvraj brought this to the attention of umpire Billy Bowden, who requested Best to return to the field. This led to a confrontation between the two passionate cricketers, with tempers flaring momentarily.
Lara, displaying his leadership qualities, quickly stepped in to diffuse the situation, while Rayudu also attempted to calm Best. The tension eventually dissipated during the second strategic timeout, with Yuvraj playfully patting Best’s back, signaling that competitive spirit hadn’t crossed into lasting animosity.
Inspired by this exchange, Yuvraj responded in the best possible way – by launching a towering six and pointing his bat toward Best. This moment evoked memories of the 2007 T20 World Cup when Yuvraj hit six sixes in an over after a verbal exchange with Andrew Flintoff.
Meanwhile, Rayudu continued his masterclass, bringing up his magnificent innings of 74 runs that formed the backbone of India’s chase. His partnership with Stuart Binny accelerated the scoring rate and brought India closer to the target. While Rayudu eventually fell before the finish line, he had done the bulk of the work to put India in a commanding position.
The finishing touches were applied by the experienced middle order, with India Masters reaching the target of 149 in just 17.1 overs, winning by 6 wickets with 17 balls to spare. The victory sparked jubilant celebrations from the Indian dugout and among the thousands of fans who had gathered to witness this historic final.
Turning Points: Key Moments That Shaped the Final
Several crucial moments defined the course of this enthralling final. Vinay Kumar’s early wicket set the tone for India’s disciplined bowling performance, preventing the West Indies from establishing early dominance. His three-wicket haul proved instrumental in restricting the West Indies to a manageable total.
The partnership between Smith and Simmons threatened to take the game away from India, but timely breakthroughs and excellent death bowling kept the target within reasonable reach. Shahbaz Nadeem’s economical spell in the middle overs applied considerable pressure, forcing the West Indian batsmen to take risks.
In the chase, Tendulkar and Rayudu’s opening partnership laid a solid foundation, allowing the middle order to approach the target with freedom. Rayudu’s masterful innings was undoubtedly the centerpiece of India’s victory, demonstrating that class remains permanent even in retirement.
The Yuvraj-Best confrontation, while momentarily tense, actually served to elevate the match’s intensity and competitive spirit. Yuvraj’s six following this exchange was a statement of intent that boosted India’s momentum at a crucial juncture.
Beyond the Scoreboard: The Spirit of Legends Cricket
What made this final particularly special was witnessing cricket legends competing with the same passion and determination that characterized their international careers. The tournament provided a platform for these former internationals to showcase their enduring skills and entertain a new generation of fans who may not have seen them in their prime.
The quality of cricket throughout the tournament, and particularly in the final, dispelled any notions that this was merely an exhibition event. The players’ competitive instincts remained as sharp as ever, with pride and professional reputation at stake. The capacity crowd at Raipur and the millions watching worldwide were treated to a spectacle that combined nostalgia with genuine sporting excellence.
The IML has successfully carved a niche in the cricket calendar, offering fans a unique opportunity to reconnect with their cricketing heroes. The presence of iconic figures like Tendulkar and Lara as active participants rather than merely ambassadors added immense credibility to the league’s inaugural edition.
Champions’ Celebrations: Tendulkar Lifts the Trophy
As the winning runs were scored, the India Masters dugout erupted in celebration. The scenes that followed were reminiscent of their international triumphs, with players embracing each other and acknowledging the rapturous applause from the crowd. For Tendulkar, adding another trophy to his illustrious cabinet was a fitting reward for his leadership throughout the tournament.
The victory ceremony was a celebration of cricket’s enduring appeal across generations. Tendulkar, flanked by his jubilant teammates, lifted the inaugural IML trophy to thunderous applause. In his acceptance speech, he acknowledged the competitive spirit shown by all teams and expressed his gratitude to the fans who had supported the league.
Rayudu was deservedly named Player of the Match for his match-defining innings of 74 runs. Lendl Simmons, despite ending on the losing side, was recognized as the Player of the Tournament for his consistent performances throughout, accumulating 294 runs at an outstanding average.
In the post-match press conference, Tendulkar praised his team’s all-round performance and highlighted the importance of experience in handling pressure situations. He specifically commended Rayudu’s composed innings and the disciplined bowling unit led by Vinay Kumar. Lara, gracious in defeat, acknowledged that India had been the better team on the day but expressed pride in his team’s journey to the final.
Tournament Impact: A Legacy Established
The inaugural International Masters League has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the cricket landscape. By bringing together legends from different eras and nations, the league has created a unique product that complements rather than competes with current international and franchise cricket.
The tournament’s success can be measured not just by the quality of cricket but also by the passionate fan engagement it generated. Packed stadiums throughout the competition demonstrated the enduring appeal of these cricketing icons. The league has successfully tapped into cricket’s rich heritage while presenting it in the popular T20 format that resonates with modern audiences.
For the players themselves, the IML offered an opportunity to reconnect with competitive cricket in a structured environment. Many expressed satisfaction at being able to extend their playing careers beyond international retirement, maintaining their connection with the game and its supporters.
Looking Ahead: Future Prospects
With the resounding success of its inaugural edition, the International Masters League has laid a strong foundation for future tournaments. Plans are already underway to expand the league, potentially including more teams from other cricketing nations and exploring additional venues.
The template established by the IML could inspire similar competitions in other sports, recognizing the commercial and nostalgic appeal of legends’ tournaments. The sustainable format, focused on quality rather than quantity of matches, appears to have struck the right balance for both players and spectators.
For cricket fans, the prospect of seeing more of their heroes in action in the coming years is an enticing one. The camaraderie between former rivals, combined with the competitive spirit that defined the tournament, creates a compelling sporting narrative that transcends typical retirement exhibitions.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in Cricket’s Rich Tapestry
The India Masters’ triumph in the inaugural International Masters League represents more than just a tournament victory. It symbolizes cricket’s ability to bridge generations, bringing together players and fans across different eras in celebration of the sport’s enduring appeal.
Tendulkar lifting the trophy in Raipur provided a fitting climax to a tournament that successfully balanced nostalgia with genuine competition. Rayudu’s match-winning knock, Vinay Kumar’s crucial wickets, and the brief but entertaining Yuvraj-Best confrontation all contributed to a memorable final that lived up to expectations.
As the cricket world reflects on this successful new addition to the global calendar, the broader impact of the International Masters League becomes apparent. By showcasing that the skills and competitive fire of these cricketing legends remain undimmed, the tournament has created its own unique identity within the sport’s ecosystem.
The India Masters can proudly claim to be the inaugural champions, but the real winners are cricket fans worldwide who have been treated to a tournament that honored the game’s rich heritage while embracing its bright future. As the curtains fall on this first edition, anticipation already builds for the next chapter in this exciting new cricketing journey.
References
- The Indian Express – IML 2025 Final, IND-M vs WI-M LIVE Cricket Score Card UPDATES
- India TV News – INDM vs WIM International Masters League T20 Highlights
- YouTube – India VS West Indies | Full Highlights | International Masters League
- Hindustan Times – India Masters vs West Indies Masters, IML 2025 Highlights
- ESPN – India Masters beat West Indies Masters by 6 wkts (17b rem)
- News18 – IND-M Vs WI-M, IML 2025 Final Highlights
- Times of India – WATCH: Yuvraj Singh and Tino Best clash as tempers flare
- ESPNCricinfo – Ind Masters beat WI Masters, Ind Masters won by 6 wickets
Citations:
- https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/iml-2025-final-ind-m-vs-wi-m-live-cricket-score-card-highlights-india-masters-take-on-west-indies-masters-in-raipur-9888999/
- https://www.indiatvnews.com/sports/cricket/indm-vs-wim-international-masters-league-t20-live-score-india-masters-vs-west-indies-masters-shaheed-veer-narayan-singh-stadium-latest-updates-teams-2025-03-16-980865
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRAbytR1tUI
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/india-masters-vs-west-indies-masters-live-score-final-2025-ind-m-vs-wi-m-t20-sachin-lara-raipur-16-march-iml-101742120009363.html
- https://www.espn.com/cricket/series/1474856/game/1474879/india-masters-vs-west-indies-masters-final-international-masters-league-2024-25
- https://m.cricbuzz.com/player-match-highlights/114940/1/240/batting
