Mumbai successfully advanced to the Ranji Trophy semifinals after defeating Haryana by 152 runs during the quarterfinal match held on February 11, 2024, at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. This victory kept the defending champions' hopes of retaining their title alive, thanks to exceptional performances by captain Ajinkya Rahane and all-rounder Shardul Thakur.
Ajinkya Rahane played a pivotal role, scoring 108 runs from 180 balls, marking his first century of the season and his 41st first-class century. His innings included 13 boundaries, which significantly contributed to Mumbai scoring 339 runs during their second innings. Resuming from 88 on the final day, Rahane wasted no time, quickly reaching his century and celebrating the milestone by lifting his helmet and gazing skyward.
Haryana, chasing 354 runs, showed early signs of resistance but quickly crumbled under pressure. Veteran quick Shardul Thakur shone with impressive bowling figures, taking three wickets for just 26 runs, adding to his match haul of nine wickets for 84 runs. The left-arm pacer Royston Dias also played a significant role, securing five wickets for 39 runs, showcasing his potential as he collected his first five-wicket haul.
The match began with Mumbai facing early trouble, finding themselves at 65 for 5 during their first innings. Their comeback was spearheaded by the eighth-wicket partnership of Tanush Kotian and Shams Mulani, who scored 165 runs to help Mumbai post 315. Meanwhile, Haryana's captain Ankit Kumar emerged as the standout performer, scoring 136 runs, but his team collapsed from 218 for 3 to 301 all out, giving Mumbai a slender 14-run lead.
After leading the way with the bat, Rahane's century provided momentum heading back to the bowling attack. Mumbai's batting unit struggled after his dismissal, losing five wickets for just 25 runs. This collapse didn't dampen Mumbai's spirits as they remained focused on defending their title with fierce determination.
Haryana's response to the 354-run target started off promisingly, but soon fell apart as they slumped to 60 for 5. Opener Lakshay Dalal (64) and Sumit Kumar (62) gave brief resistance with their sixth-wicket partnership of 90 runs but were unable to steady the ship against Mumbai's relentless attack.
This victory marks not just another step for Mumbai but also serves as motivation as they prepare for the semifinals against Vidarbha. Having recently trounced Tamil Nadu by 198 runs, Vidarbha poses another challenge for the defending champions.
Mumbai's nine-wicket haul for Shardul Thakur has kept selectors attentive and interested as they look toward future opportunities, especially with the upcoming England tour looming. Meanwhile, Rahane's return to form with the bat is encouraging, as it suggests he may still be pivotal for the side as they attempt to clinch their 42nd Ranji Trophy title.
The confidence boost from this comprehensive victory reveals the Mumbai players’ resilience, reminding fans of their ability to rebound even when faced with adversity. With the next match on the horizon, the team has shown they are up for the challenge as the Ranji Trophy season progresses.