Kerala is facing Vidarbha for the prestigious title of the Ranji Trophy Final held at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur. Day three of the match brings plenty of excitement as Kerala looks to reduce their massive deficit from Vidarbha's first innings total.
At stumps on day two, Kerala had managed to score 131 runs for the loss of three wickets, still trailing by 248 runs. Aditya Sarwate, with his composed innings of 66 not out, is the focus for Kerala as they aim for stabilization, accompanied by the experienced skipper Sachin Baby who remains at the crease with 7 runs.
The second day was highlighted by Vidarbha's impressive first innings total of 379 runs, built on the back of strong batting performances. Danish Malewar shone with the bat, scoring a remarkable 153 runs, showcasing aggressive strokes during his innings. Yet, Kerala’s bowling trio of Nedumankuzhy Basil, MD Nidheesh, and Eden Apple Tom proved effective, particularly as they kept Vidarbha’s scoring rate under control during key moments.
Vidarbha started day two at 254/4 but were bundled out for 379. The lower order resisted effectively, with notable contributions from Harsh Dubey and Nachiket Bhute, who put together a partnership of 44 runs, allowing them to surpass 350 runs. Basil struck first for Kerala, taking the key wicket of Malewar and then dismissing fellow batsman Yash Thakur soon afterward, igniting hope for the Kerala side.
Despite the early breakthroughs, Vidarbha’s batting prowess was evident as they dealt with the Kerala bowlers with confidence. Their innings came to conclusion with Basil, Nidheesh, and Apple Tom sharing the wicket count, each claiming three wickets as they capitalized on the hosts' aggressive start.
When Kerala took to the pitch, the situation quickly unraveled as Vidarbha’s Darshan Nalkande delivered two consecutive blows, reducing Kerala to 4 for 2. It was then Sarwate and Ahammed Imran who stabilized the innings with their partnership of 93 runs, which was instrumental for Kerala’s fightback.
Imran managed to score 37 before falling to Yash Thakur's well-directed bouncer, leaving Sarwate to continue as the anchor for his team. His aggression included stunning cover drives, indicating his intent to take control of the match and raise hopes for Kerala.
With the match poised on the edge, the stakes couldn't be higher for both teams as they head toward the concluding days of the final. Vidarbha's first-innings performance sets them up as strong favorites, yet Kerala's persistence could turn the tide if they build on their momentum and Sarwate's considerable score.
Looking forward, the stage is set for more thrilling cricket as Kerala aims not only to surpass Vidarbha's total but also to secure their place as champions of the Ranji Trophy. The players have much to prove as they continue their fight for glory over the coming innings.
Brief scores:
Vidarbha 379 all out (123.1 overs) - Danish Malewar 153, MD Nidheesh 3-61, Eden Apple Tom 3-102
Kerala 131/3 (39 overs) - Aditya Sarwate 66 not out, Sachin Baby 7 not out, Darshan Nalkande 2-22.