Nagpur: The 2025 Ranji Trophy final has set the stage for history, as Kerala and Vidarbha clash at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium. For the first time, Kerala has reached this prestigious final, showcasing their grit and determination throughout the tournament. Led by captain Sachin Baby, Kerala's path to this moment has been both thrilling and dramatic, particularly with narrow victories over Jammu and Kashmir and Gujarat.
Kerala's triumph over Jammu by just one run and their semifinal win against Gujarat by two runs exemplifies their tenacity. Key to their success has been the remarkable batting performances of players like Salman Nizar and Mohammed Azharuddeen, who have scored over 600 runs each this season. Azharuddeen's stunning 177 off 341 balls against Gujarat is etched in their cricketing lore as it secured their place in the final.
On the bowling front, Kerala has relied on the experience of Jalaj Saxena, who has taken 38 wickets this season, and former Vidarbha star Aditya Sarwate, who has complemented Saxena with 30 wickets. Sarwate brings valuable insight to Kerala's lineup, having previously played for Vidarbha and contributing to their successful campaigns.
Vidarbha, entering the final as favorites, boasts a well-rounded team with considerable experience. Captain Akshay Wadkar has led the team effectively, with standout performers like Yash Rathod, who has amassed 933 runs, and Harsh Dubey, whose 66 wickets are closing in on the record for the most wickets in a Ranji season.
Vidarbha's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular, winning eight out of their nine matches and topping their group. They will certainly pose a significant challenge to the upstart Kerala team.
The final match is expected to be tightly contested. The stakes are high; for Kerala, this is uncharted territory, whereas Vidarbha looks to continue its legacy as multi-time champions. Each side embodies contrasting styles, with Kerala's youthful exuberance pitted against Vidarbha's seasoned veterans.
Newcomer Eden Apple Tom, only 19 years old, made headlines after debuting for Kerala and contributing significantly to their campaign, signifying the team’s potential for future greatness.
Adding to the gravity of this encounter, Aditya Sarwate revealed his deep connection to Vidarbha as he stated, "I know the strengths and weaknesses of each player in Vidarbha, and they also know mine. Although there is video analysis of players these days, my tips can come handy in a match situation," showcasing the psychological battles at play.
Another intriguing aspect of the final is how Sarwate, having faced his former teammates, will leverage his extensive knowledge to guide Kerala against Vidarbha. With tensions running high and both teams eager to claim the title, the final promises to be a spectacle of cricketing prowess.
Going beyond the match itself, the evening will be filled with excitement as fans anticipate both teams pushing their limits. Kerala’s fans hope to witness their first Ranji Trophy victory ever, whereas Vidarbha supporters expect their team to add another trophy to its cabinet.
The match will commence on February 26, 2025, at 9:30 AM IST, following the toss at 9 AM IST. The live telecast will be available on the Sports 18 network, and streaming will be accessible through the Jio Hotstar app.
Overall, the 2025 Ranji Trophy final isn't just about the trophy; it embodies dreams and aspirations, showcasing the beauty and competitiveness of Indian domestic cricket.