After days of fiercely competitive cricket in Atlanta, the North Bears crossed the finish line first, defeating the West Warriors in the championship match to become the Masters Cricket USA Over 50 National Champions 2026.

Sixteen teams began the tournament with one goal. A wet opening gave way to beautiful playing conditions and a series of closely fought contests, eventually leaving two unbeaten teams—North Bears and West Warriors—to battle for the national title on September 18, 2026.

A Final Worthy of the Tournament

The championship matchup promised to be special. Both teams had been impressive throughout the tournament and arrived at the final unbeaten. The Warriors brought tremendous batting depth, while the Bears entered with a bowling attack that had consistently restricted opponents and made run chases look comfortable.

The final also featured several of the tournament’s leading performers. Raj Badadare had spearheaded the Warriors’ bowling attack with 14 wickets entering the championship game, while Ram Hanumara had claimed 12 for the Bears. With players such as Anwar Ahmad, Sunny Singh, Fazal Alam, Nirav Shah, Gani, Rajiv Shah and Deepak in the two lineups, the stage was set for a fitting conclusion to the Nationals.

And when the pressure was at its highest, North Bears delivered.

The Bears produced the performance that mattered most, overcoming a formidable West Warriors side and completing an outstanding tournament as 2026 Over 50 National Champions.

From Contenders to Champions

Throughout the competition, the Bears built their success around disciplined bowling, controlled scoring rates and efficient batting. Their three left-arm bowlers—Ram, Deepak and Rajiv—formed the backbone of an attack that continually put opposition batting lineups under pressure.

Their batting unit also provided the depth required for a championship run. Fazal, Nirav, Gani, Sharat, Jay, Munawar and the rest of the Bears lineup gave the team options throughout the order and ensured that their bowlers’ work was consistently backed up with the bat.

The Warriors deserve tremendous recognition as well. Their run to the final demonstrated the strength of a deep and experienced squad, and their performances helped produce a memorable championship race.

Congratulations, North Bears!

From 16 teams to one champion, the Masters Cricket USA Over 50 Nationals 2026 once again demonstrated the quality, competitiveness and camaraderie that define Masters cricket.

Congratulations to the North Bears—2026 Masters Cricket USA Over 50 National Champions! 🏆🐻

Congratulations also to the West Warriors, every participating team, players, officials, volunteers, sponsors and supporters who helped make the Atlanta Nationals a memorable celebration of The Second Innings.

16 Teams. One National Champion. North Bears. 🏆