KCL 2026: Sijomon Joseph stars as Trivandrum Royals beat Kochi for first Victory of the Season

Sijomon Joseph delivered a match-winning all-round performance as Trivandrum Royals defeated Kochi Blue Tigers by 55 runs at the Greenfield Stadium to open their account in the Kerala Cricket League season.

Batting first, Trivandrum posted a strong 185, with Sijomon playing a starring role. Walking in at No. 6, the all-rounder remained unbeaten on 56 off 37 balls, providing the late-innings acceleration that helped the Royals finish strongly.

Sijomon joined hands with Akshay Manohar for a crucial fourth-wicket partnership. The pair added 67 runs from 40 deliveries, giving the innings much-needed momentum. Akshay contributed 32 before being dismissed by Salie Samson.

Sijomon then took charge in the closing stages, adding 44 runs with Vinod Kumar from just 26 balls. He shifted gears against Mohammed Ashiq and Salie Samson, finding the boundary regularly before finishing his half-century in style with a four and a six from the final two deliveries. His unbeaten innings featured five fours and two sixes.

The all-rounder then returned with the ball and continued his excellent evening. Bowling three overs, Sijomon conceded only 13 runs and picked up two wickets, dismissing Mohammed Shanu and Alfie Francis.

His efforts with both bat and ball proved decisive as Trivandrum Royals comfortably defended their total and secured their first victory of the season, beating Kochi Blue Tigers by 55 runs.