Mumbai’s dominance continued on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy clash against arch-rivals Maharashtra at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in Bandra-Kurla Complex. The defending champions, led by a clinical bowling performance and a stellar century from Ayush Mhatre, took a firm grip on the contest.
The Mumbai bowlers, led by Shardul Thakur, Mohit Avasthi, and Royston Dias, wreaked havoc on the Maharashtra batting lineup. Thakur’s early dismissal of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sachin Dhas set the tone for the day, while Avasthi’s three-wicket haul, including the crucial scalp of Ankeet Bawane, further dented Maharashtra’s hopes. Shams Mulani wrapped up the innings with a quickfire three-wicket burst, dismissing Hitesh Walunj, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, and Pradeep Dadhe in quick succession.
Maharashtra’s meager total of 126 was chased down with ease by Mumbai. Prithvi Shaw and Hardik Tamore fell cheaply, but Mhatre, the 19-year-old opener, played a magnificent innings to guide his team to victory. He scored an unbeaten 127, hitting 17 fours and 3 sixes, and shared crucial partnerships with Ajinkya Rahane (99) and Shreyas Iyer (45*).
Mhatre’s century was a testament to his talent and composure. He played with maturity beyond his years, driving the Maharashtra bowlers with panache and punishing any loose deliveries. His innings was a major factor in Mumbai’s dominant performance on the opening day.
With a lead of 94 runs, Mumbai is in a commanding position heading into the second day. Maharashtra will need to produce a much-improved performance with the bat to stay in contention.
