In a gripping encounter, Uttar Pradesh displayed tremendous grit and determination to secure a two-wicket victory against Mumbai in a Ranji Trophy match. Aryan Juyal and Karan Sharma played pivotal roles in UP’s successful run chase of 195 runs on the final day. Mumbai, resuming their second innings at 303/8, were bowled out for 320. Juyal and Karan’s 104-run partnership for the third wicket laid the foundation for UP’s chase. Despite regular wickets falling, Karan stood tall, scoring an unbeaten 67 off 173 balls, guiding UP to victory and earning six valuable points.
The visitors finished at 195/8 in almost 70 overs, with Tanush Kotian (5/58) leading Mumbai’s fightback with the ball. The match showcased competitive cricket and exemplified UP’s resilience in overcoming a challenging target.
Meanwhile, in another Ranji Trophy match, Andhra convincingly defeated Chhattisgarh by 126 runs. Chasing 320 for victory, Chhattisgarh could only manage 193, with Andhra’s bowlers dominating the proceedings. Opener Eknath Kerkar fought valiantly with a 199-ball 76, but the rest of the batting lineup succumbed to the pressure. Andhra’s all-round performance, including Hanuma Vihari’s first-innings score of 183, set the tone for their victory. Nitish Kumar Reddy (3/36) and Prasanth Kumar (3/21) played key roles in dismantling Chhattisgarh’s batting lineup.
Bihar secured three points in their clash against Kerala, having taken a 150-run lead in the first innings. The match ended in a draw, with Kerala bolstered by Sachin Baby’s unbeaten 109 in the second innings. Bihar had posted 377 in reply to Kerala’s 227 in the first essay. While the match didn’t produce a winner, Bihar gained valuable points.
In Mohali, Delhi clinched a thrilling seven-run victory against Uttarakhand, securing their first win of the Ranji Trophy season. Skipper Himmat Singh’s courageous 194 and a brilliant bowling effort from Himanshu Chauhan (5/39) and Hrithik Shokeen (3/81) were instrumental in Delhi’s triumph. Despite the win, Delhi finds itself in the seventh spot in the Group D standings.
The match between Odisha and Himachal Pradesh witnessed a dominant performance from the hosts. Rajesh Mohanty’s five-wicket haul triggered a collapse in Himachal’s batting lineup, and they lost nine wickets for just 88 runs on the final day. Odisha secured a 238-run win, with Mohanty leading the bowling attack.
In a contest between Jammu and Kashmir and Baroda, the former walked away with three points due to a superior batting display in the first innings. Mahesh Pithiya’s 5/82 and Sahil Lotra’s unbeaten 63 played pivotal roles in Jammu and Kashmir’s performance, leaving Baroda struggling at 193/7 when stumps were drawn.
These Ranji Trophy matches showcased intense competition, individual brilliance, and team efforts, making for an exciting round of cricket action.
