Melita enhanced their chances of winning the Winter League this year after a surprise victory over leaders Krishna last weekend.Nowell Khosla and John Grima opened the batting for Krishna, the pre-match favourites.

Grima, however, was bowled with the first ball he faced. Faraaz Bhatti was next in and managed a 37-run partnership with Khosla before being bowled after 10 runs.

Sam Dhandapani, playing his first game in over six months, added nine runs. Sam Aquilina contributed with seven, Kevin Krishna seven and Andy Naudi three. Khosla, meanwhile, held his innings and scored 53 from a total team score of 95.

For Melita, Andy Lenard and Anthony Roberts were the main wicket-takers with two each.

Melita, who tied their previous match against Marsa, were looking to stay in contention and it took them 14.5 overs to complete a convincing win.

Lenard opened the batting and scored 28, including two 4s. Joy Ghoseroy, the other opener, managed a 37 but both batsmen were out to Khosla, the only wicket-taker for Krishna.

Justin Brooke (14 not out) and Anthony Roberts (11) made the rest of the runs required for an unexpected victory.

Melita went on to earn eight points which put them in front of Marsa with 16 points. Marsa have 15. Krishna are still on top with 22 points.

The last two games of the league will be played tomorrow at 10.30 a.m. and 2 p.m. On Saturday, the Marsa CC team will be playing against new touring team Whittingdon from the UK.

Last week, the MCA, in conjunction with the Sports Promotion Unit, marked the 100th year of the International Cricket Council with a School Cricket Day and a tournament. On the occasion, Fortini Tigers beat Ħandaq Swans in the final.