Viabrha's cricket team made headlines on February 11, 2025, as they secured their place in the Ranji Trophy semifinals with a resounding 198-run victory over Tamil Nadu at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground in Nagpur. Riding on the back of exceptional performances from seamer Nachiket Bhute and batsman Yash Rathod, the team effectively demonstrated their prowess, making their way through the knockout stages with confidence.
After putting up 353 runs in their first innings, Vidarbha faced Tamil Nadu, who were set the intimidating task of chasing 401 runs to win the match. Things took a turn early on as Tamil Nadu's batting lineup crumbled under pressure, swiftly losing five wickets for just 45 runs. Bhute was on fire, taking out significant players including Narayan Jagadeesan for 18 runs and Vijay Shankar, who scored just 5 runs. His remarkable spell concluded with impressive figures of 3 for 19, showcasing his capability to disrupt the opposition's batting order.
Meanwhile, Yash Rathod's performance was equally commendable. He led from the front, crafting his fifth first-class century with determination and skill, scoring 112 runs off 213 deliveries. Rathod's innings was foundational for Vidarbha's second innings, allowing them to extend their lead with calculated batting alongside Harsh Dubey who chipped in with 64 runs. Their partnership built strength for Vidarbha's commanding lead, preparing them for the stiff challenge posed by Tamil Nadu.
The match's penultimate day saw Tamil Nadu attempt to recover, yet they struggled against Vidarbha's bowlers. Even as Pradosh Ranjan Paul fought valiantly to make 53 runs, and tail-ender Sonu Yadav added 57 more, the team fell short, bowled out for 202 runs. Left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey played the perfect supporting role, taking the final wickets with figures of 3 for 40, sealing Vidarbha's emphatic win.
Reflecting on the match, Vidarbha entered the final day with abundant confidence, leveraging their strong total from the previous innings. Their ability to add 103 runs to their overnight score before eventually being bowled out for 272 proved decisive. Rathod’s cautious yet impactful innings demonstrated his depth as a player, consistently building partnerships as his team faced some initial setbacks.
Coach and team manager praised the players, highlighting how the collective effort—ranging from batting to ball control—was key to their success. The return to form for players like Rathod was particularly noted, especially considering how well he had previously performed during the 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy, with five centuries to his name.
While Vidarbha's lineup functioned effectively, Tamil Nadu entered the game with high expectations but couldn’t adapt to the mounting scoreboard pressure. Despite having talented players, their lineup faltered repeatedly against disciplined bowling from the Vidarbha side. Aditya Thakare’s brilliant bowling effort, taking 5 wickets for 34 runs, contributed significantly to reducing Tamil Nadu’s chances.
Now standing on the brink of their next challenge, Vidarbha will face Mumbai at home—due to their performance as the team with the most points during the group stages. This semifinal promises to be highly competitive, but with their confidence soaring from this colossal victory, the players hope to maintain their impeccable form.
Vidarbha’s remarkable quarterfinal performance not only showcases their determination to push through the tournament but also places them as serious contenders as they eye the trophy.