A Historic Milestone for Kerala Cricket
Kerala captain Sachin Baby has been bestowed with the rare honor of leading his team in the Ranji Trophy final in what marks his 100th first-class match. This significant moment in Kerala’s cricketing history coincides with another milestone, as veteran all-rounder Jalaj Saxena plays his 150th first-class match.
Kerala’s Long-Awaited Dream of Reaching the Ranji Trophy Final
“Reaching the Ranji Trophy final has been our long-standing dream. We have followed the path paved by our predecessors, and now we are here,” stated Sachin Baby, reflecting on the journey that has brought Kerala to the grand stage of domestic cricket.
Vidarbha’s Batting Collapse: A Perfect Start for Kerala
The Ranji Trophy final witnessed a dramatic start as Kerala’s bowlers wreaked havoc on Vidarbha’s top order. Within the first few overs, Vidarbha found themselves struggling at 24 for 3, thanks to a fiery bowling display from Kerala’s attack.
Early Wickets Shake Vidarbha’s Innings
Vidarbha’s innings suffered an early setback with the dismissals of Parth Rekhade (0), Darshan Nalkande (1), and Dhruv Shorey. MD Nidheesh struck twice, while Eden Apple Tom chipped in with a crucial wicket.
The match began with Vidarbha losing the toss and being sent in to bat. Their troubles started on the second ball itself when Parth Rekhade was trapped lbw by Nidheesh. Darshan Nalkande, who tried to steady the innings, survived for six overs but was eventually caught by NP Basil after scoring just a single run from 21 balls. Vidarbha’s collapse continued as Dhruv Shorey, who had a close lbw call against him earlier, edged a delivery from Eden Apple Tom into the safe hands of wicketkeeper Mohammed Azharuddeen.
Kerala’s Playing XI: A Tactical Change for the Final
Kerala, after winning a crucial toss, decided to field first. The team made one strategic change from the playing XI that triumphed over Gujarat in the semi-final. Sean Roger made way for Eden Apple Tom, strengthening the bowling attack.
Kerala’s Playing XI for the Ranji Trophy Final:
- Akshay Chandran
- Rohan Kunnummal
- Sachin Baby (Captain)
- Jalaj Saxena
- Mohammed Azharuddeen (Wicketkeeper)
- Salman Nizar
- Ahmed Imran
- Eden Apple Tom
- Aditya Sarwate
- MD Nidheesh
Vidarbha’s Unchanged Line-Up from the Semi-Final Victory Over Mumbai
Unlike Kerala, Vidarbha decided to stick with their winning combination from the semi-final against Mumbai.
Vidarbha’s Playing XI:
- Dhruv Shorey
- Parth Rekhade
- Danish Malewar
- Karun Nair
- Yash Rathod
- Akshay Wadkar (Captain)
- Akshay Karnewar
- Harsh Dubey
- Nachiket Bhute
- Darshan Nalkande
- Yash Thakur
Kerala’s Dominance with the Ball Puts Them in Control
With Vidarbha reeling under pressure at 24 for 3, Kerala’s disciplined bowling attack set the tone for a dominant first day of the Ranji Trophy final. The early breakthroughs have put the team in a commanding position, bringing them one step closer to a historic title victory.
Can Kerala Maintain Their Momentum?
With a well-balanced squad and the right mix of experience and young talent, Kerala has the upper hand in the final. The challenge now lies in maintaining their momentum and capitalizing on this early advantage.
Stay tuned for more updates as Kerala pushes forward in their quest for Ranji Trophy glory.