The International Masters League (IML) 2025 final between India Masters and West Indies Masters was a high-stakes affair in the making—full of intensity, passion, and a war of words. The heated moment of drama took place at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur when Yuvraj Singh and Tino Best exchanged heated words, bringing back memories of their fiery on-field characters during their playing careers.
The altercation occurred in the 14th over, immediately after Ambati Rayudu had hit a huge six off Ashley Nurse’s bowling. As the ball went over the stands, Yuvraj, who was at the non-striker’s end, uttered a few words to Tino Best, who was fielding within the 30-yard circle. Best, never one to shy away from a fight, walked up to the Indian all-rounder, leading to a fierce shoulder-to-shoulder confrontation.
Lafda with Yuvraj vs Tino best ☠️ #IMLT20Final #YuvrajSingh #IMLT20
— CricFreak69 (@Twi_Swastideep) March 16, 2025
The altercation soon intensified, with both players refusing to back down. The umpire, Billy Bowden, was forced to intervene to calm the situation, as well as Rayudu and West Indies Masters captain Brian Lara. Interestingly, only an over earlier, Best had been dispatched for 12 runs by the Indian pair, perhaps contributing to the anger. Despite the war of words, the game continued, with India Masters still in command.
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India Masters finally won the first IML title with a comprehensive six-wicket win, courtesy of a magnificent knock by Ambati Rayudu. The erstwhile Indian batsman produced a match-winning 74 off 50 balls, sprinkling his innings with nine boundaries and three sixes. His elegant stroke play saw India chase down the 149-run target comfortably with 2.5 overs remaining.
Earlier in the game, West Indies Masters had scored 148/7, with Lendl Simmons scoring the highest with a calm 57, while Dwayne Smith contributed a half-hearted 45 from 35 deliveries. Their innings was halted by India Masters’ bowling attack. Vinay Kumar picked up three important wickets, while left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem pitched in with a thrilling spell, allowing just 12 runs from his four overs and picking up two vital wickets.
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Even though West Indies lost initial momentum with Lara and William Perkins getting out cheaply, Simmons’ determination kept them in the game. India Masters, however, never seemed to be in any trouble in their pursuit, with Rayudu supporting the cause impeccably. Even after his fall, Stuart Binny’s stinging cameo ensured a flawless finish, as India Masters won the IML 2025 trophy in style.
