Vidarbha has once again demonstrated their cricketing prowess by securing the prestigious Ranji Trophy for the third time. Entering the final day with a significant first-innings lead, Vidarbha effectively nullified Kerala’s chances, ultimately leading to a draw and clinching the championship.
As anticipated, Vidarbha’s first-innings advantage of 37 runs proved decisive. Their batsmen’s resilient performance in the second innings on the fourth day put them in a commanding position. Starting the final day with a 286-run lead and six wickets in hand, Vidarbha extended their lead beyond 400 runs, putting the game out of Kerala’s reach. After adding 126 runs on the final day, both teams agreed to a draw.
The initial phase of the day saw slow scoring until Karun Nair, who had reached a century overnight, was stumped for 135. At this point, Kerala desperately needed quick wickets to have any chance of chasing down the target. However, Akshay Wadkar and Harsh Dubey displayed solid defense, thwarting Kerala’s hopes. Eden Apple managed to dismiss Dubey after the drinks break, and Aditya Sarwate briefly unsettled Vidarbha by bowling out Wadkar for 25 off 108 balls.
Darshan Nalkande and Akshay Karnewar then stabilized Vidarbha’s innings, occupying the crease for over 20 overs, further diminishing Kerala’s chances of forcing a victory. Despite Kerala taking a couple of wickets after lunch, Nalkande accelerated the scoring, pushing Vidarbha’s lead past 400. Upon Nalkande reaching his half-century, both teams decided to conclude the match.
Danish Malewar, who scored a century in the first innings, was rightfully awarded player of the match. Harsh Dubey was recognized as the player of the tournament for his consistent performance throughout the Ranji Trophy season.
Summary: Vidarbha 379 (Danish Malewar 153; MD Nidheesh 3/61) & 375/9 (Karun Nair 135, Danish Malewar 73; Aditya Sarwate 4/96) drew with Kerala 342 (Sachin Baby 98, Aditya Sarwate 79; Darshan Nalkande 3/52)
