Fort school wins third straight Harris Shield title

Anjuman-I-Islam Allana English School in Fort has won its third straight Harris Shield title. Coach Kadir Patel said the team’s preparation and bowling options were central to the run.

The run began in 2024, when Anjuman ended a 20-year wait for the trophy after drawing its second innings against Modern English School and progressing on a four-run first-innings lead under BCCI rules. Patel said the team aimed for more decisive results in the following seasons after the close finish.

In the latest final, seamer Anuj Singh took four wickets. Captain and wicketkeeper Devashish Ghodke scored 39 in the first innings and was named best batter. Patel also named Rajveersinh Surve, Umar Khute and all-rounder Aarav Yadav among the team’s key contributors.

Patel said the side trained for three to four months before the tournament, starting with indoor sessions in Chembur during the monsoon. The squad then moved outdoors for nets, fitness and fielding drills, and practice matches. He credited the school management, including president Zahir Kazi, with supporting the programme.