Bengal Aims for Full Points Against Bihar in Ranji Trophy Group-C Clash

Bengal Aims for Full Points Against Bihar in Ranji Trophy Group-C Clash

Bengal will face Bihar in a Ranji Trophy Group-C match at the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) Academy ground in Kolkata, starting Friday. The hosts will be keen to secure full points after a positive start against Uttar Pradesh in their opening match.

Despite the absence of pacer Akash Deep due to national duty, Bengal managed a narrow 19-run lead and picked up three crucial points in Lucknow. The team’s intent was a big takeaway from the match, and they will look to build on that momentum.

Although the Eden Gardens is unavailable for Bengal’s next two outings, the Anustup Majumdar-led side will try to make the most of the home conditions at the CAB Academy ground. Centurion openers Sudip Chatterjee and Abhimanyu Easwaran, along with Sudip Gharami, provided assurance with their performances in the previous match.

Experienced hands Majumdar, Writtick Chatterjee, and wicketkeeper-batter Abishek Porel will be eager to contribute with the bat. Wriddhiman Saha is doubtful due to a stiff back.

Mukesh Kumar, who captured six wickets in the opening match, led the way for Bengal’s pace attack. Mohammed Kaif provided good support, but Mukesh will take rest to manage his workload.

Shahbaz Ahmed, who scored 44 runs and took five wickets in the previous match, underlined his worth with both bat and ball and might play a key role again.

Bihar, on the other hand, began its Ranji campaign on a disastrous note, suffering an innings defeat against Haryana. The only positive for them was the success of their spin duo, leg-break bowler Himanshu Singh (four wickets) and left-arm spinner Sachin Kumar (three wickets).

While Bihar will face an uphill task, the hosts, keeping in mind Thursday’s shower, will try to wrap up the match quickly. “There is a bit of uncertainty due to the rain. But we will give our best,” said Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla.

Mumbai-Maharashtra Derby Reignites at New Venue

Mumbai-Maharashtra Derby Reignites at New Venue

The Maharashtra Derby, a storied rivalry in Indian domestic cricket, is set to be reignited at a new venue – the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy ground – in the heart of a business hub. Mumbai, the defending Ranji Trophy champions, will face off against Maharashtra in a crucial match that could shape their title defense.

Mumbai, playing its first game of the season, has received a boost with the return of India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav. Yadav, who last played a Ranji match at the same venue two years ago, will be eager to make an impact and help his team get its title defense on track.

Maharashtra, under the new coach-captain combination of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sulakshan Kulkarni, will also be looking to make a statement after conceding the innings lead to Jammu and Kashmir in their previous match. Reading the pitch and getting its combination right will be key for Maharashtra.

The Maharashtra Derby has a rich history, having been staged at various venues across the state over its 64 previous Ranji Trophy meetings. The rivalry between the two teams is intense, with both sides boasting a strong fan base.

In recent years, Mumbai has held the upper hand, winning the last two encounters. However, Maharashtra will be determined to break that streak and reclaim the bragging rights.

The match is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams possessing a wealth of talent. Mumbai will rely on the experience of Ajinkya Rahane and the explosive batting of Suryakumar Yadav. Maharashtra, on the other hand, will look to its captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and the all-round abilities of Shardul Thakur to guide them to victory.

The outcome of the match could have a significant impact on the Ranji Trophy standings. A win for Mumbai would give them a strong start to their title defense, while a victory for Maharashtra would boost their confidence and put them in contention for a playoff spot.

Abhimanyu Easwaran Knocks on India's Doors with Consistent Centuries

Abhimanyu Easwaran Knocks on India’s Doors with Consistent Centuries

Abhimanyu Easwaran, Bengal’s prolific opening batsman, continues to impress with his consistent performances, raising questions about his absence from the Indian national team. In the recent Ranji Trophy match against Uttar Pradesh, Easwaran hammered a century (127), his fourth in the last nine innings. This followed his two centuries in the Duleep Trophy and a superb 191 in the Irani Cup against Mumbai.

Easwaran’s impressive run of form has seen him score 7,638 runs in 99 first-class matches at an average of 49.92, including 27 centuries. Despite his stellar performances, he has yet to receive a call-up to the national team.

In an interview with TOI, Easwaran expressed his desire to make a fresh start this season after an injury-hit campaign last year. He praised the sporting pitch at Ekana Stadium, where he scored two centuries in the last 15 days.

Easwaran also discussed his aggressive approach in the second innings against Uttar Pradesh, which he attributed to the need to put up a decent score. He highlighted the importance of being proactive on challenging wickets.

Reflecting on his cricketing journey, Easwaran credited his father’s passion for the game as his inspiration. He also acknowledged the valuable lessons he learned during his time with India A, where he played alongside international cricketers.

Easwaran emphasized that his focus remains on performing for his team and that the decision of whether or not to call him up to the national team rests with the selectors. He expressed his gratitude for being part of the Indian team environment during the 2021 England tour, where he gained valuable insights from senior cricketers.

Shreyas Gopal Returns to Karnataka, Aims for Ranji Trophy Success

Shreyas Gopal Returns to Karnataka, Aims for Ranji Trophy Success

Karnataka’s Ranji Trophy hopes have received a significant boost with the return of experienced leg-spinning all-rounder Shreyas Gopal. After a brief stint with Kerala in the 2023-24 season, Gopal has rejoined his home state, eager to contribute to their elusive Ranji Trophy triumph since 2014-15.

Gopal’s return is a testament to his unwavering loyalty to Karnataka. Despite receiving offers from other states, he has chosen to prioritize his home team’s success. This decision reflects his deep connection to Karnataka and his desire to make a meaningful impact on their cricketing fortunes.

In the 2022-23 First Class season, Gopal’s batting prowess came to the fore as he scored 360 runs at an average of 45. However, he is determined to regain his status as a formidable bowler. He has spent the last year honing his skills, focusing on improving his accuracy and consistency.

Gopal’s return is particularly crucial for Karnataka, who have struggled to find a reliable spinner in recent years. His experience and ability to control the game with his spin bowling will be invaluable to the team. He is confident of contributing with both bat and ball, aiming for a target of 30-35 wickets and 500 runs in the upcoming season.

As a senior pro, Gopal also recognizes his responsibility to mentor the team’s younger spinners, Hardik Raj and Mohsin Khan. He is eager to share his knowledge and experience, helping them develop their skills and reach their full potential.

Karnataka will be hoping that Gopal’s return will inspire the team to break their Ranji Trophy drought. With his experience, leadership, and all-round abilities, he is poised to play a pivotal role in their quest for glory.

Jonty Sidhu's Unbeaten Century Powers Delhi to First-Innings Lead

Jonty Sidhu’s Unbeaten Century Powers Delhi to First-Innings Lead

Jonty Sidhu, the 26-year-old left-handed batsman, has made a strong start to the new Ranji Trophy season, echoing his impressive performance in the previous campaign. In the opening fixture against Chhattisgarh, Sidhu’s unbeaten 103 played a crucial role in Delhi securing the first-innings lead and three points.

Sidhu’s innings was a testament to his ability to blend caution with aggression, particularly when the team was in a precarious position at 202 for five. He forged valuable partnerships with the lower order, demonstrating his composure and adaptability in challenging situations.

Despite his impressive average of 49.1 after 23 First Class matches, this was surprisingly Sidhu’s first selection for Delhi’s opening game in three seasons. Buoyed by his strong start, he is optimistic about his prospects and aims to make the most of his opportunity.

Sidhu’s ideal batting position is at No. 4, and he believes that this will allow him to make a more significant impact on the team’s performance. He is particularly excited about Delhi’s upcoming match against Tamil Nadu, a team against which he has a strong record, having scored two fifties and a century in three previous encounters.

Sidhu’s resurgence is a welcome boost for Delhi, who have struggled in recent seasons. His ability to contribute consistently with the bat will be crucial to their hopes of improving their fortunes in the Ranji Trophy.

Tamil Nadu Pacer Gurjapneet Singh Emerges as Rising Star in Indian Cricket

Tamil Nadu Pacer Gurjapneet Singh Emerges as Rising Star in Indian Cricket

Gurjapneet Singh, a 25-year-old pacer from Tamil Nadu, has emerged as a rising star in Indian cricket. Despite facing setbacks in his early career, Gurjapneet has persevered and is now making a significant impact in the Ranji Trophy.

Born and raised in Ambala, Gurjapneet initially struggled to break into the Punjab age-group team. Undeterred, he relocated to Chennai in search of better opportunities. After initial challenges, he has become a key player for Tamil Nadu, helping them win crucial matches.

In a recent Elite Group D match against Saurashtra, Gurjapneet claimed a six-wicket haul, including the prized scalps of Cheteshwar Pujara and Sheldon Jackson. His impressive figures of 14-5-22-6 showcased his exceptional bowling skills.

Gurjapneet’s journey has been marked by memorable encounters with some of India’s top cricketers. During a recent net session with the Indian team, he famously castled Virat Kohli, an incident that left the star batter visibly frustrated. However, Kohli’s subsequent advice proved invaluable to Gurjapneet.

“He told me, when there is no movement, change the angle and try bowling around the wicket. Because with that angle, even if you manage to get slight movement, it will end up troubling most batsmen,” Gurjapneet recalled.

Gurjapneet also shared his strategy for dismissing Pujara, a renowned batsman. “When you bowl to a legendary batsman like him, you have to be accurate from the word go. So the plan was to push him on the backfoot and then send in a good front foot ball that would make him uncomfortable,” he explained.

Gurjapneet’s success is a testament to his determination and hard work. He has overcome challenges and embraced opportunities, proving that with perseverance and the right guidance, anything is possible.

Baroda Stuns Mumbai in Ranji Trophy, Wakaskar Witnesses Historic Win

Baroda Stuns Mumbai in Ranji Trophy, Wakaskar Witnesses Historic Win

Baroda’s historic victory over Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy has sparked a wave of jubilation within the team and its supporters. The last time Baroda defeated Mumbai in this prestigious tournament was in 1998-99, a match that featured a remarkable nine-wicket haul by Yogendra Wakaskar.

Wakaskar, now a member of the senior selection panel, was present at the Vadodara International Cricket Stadium on Monday morning, witnessing the triumph that brought back fond memories. He was joined by chief selector Prayan Dave and Umang Patel, who were equally thrilled with the team’s performance under the leadership of Krunal Pandya.

The celebrations extended to the Baroda dressing room, where head coach Mukund Parmar expressed his delight at being involved in his first win against Mumbai. Parmar, a former Gujarat stalwart, refrained from viewing the victory as revenge for last year’s quarterfinal exit in Mumbai.

“It’s not revenge and all. What’s past is past,” Parmar said. “It obviously gives a huge fillip to the confidence of the bunch to have started the season by beating the defending Ranji and Irani champion and the domestic giant in a convincing manner. Our skill-sets have never been in question. I am delighted with the manner in which the boys bounced back when put under pressure.”

Mumbai had opportunities to tighten their grip on the match in both of Baroda’s batting innings. Baroda managed to post a respectable 290 on a turner after being reduced to 90 for five in the first innings. In the second innings, they rallied from 41 for six to add 144 runs for the last four wickets, effectively taking the game away from Mumbai.

“We created opportunities but the 130-run partnership in the first innings (between Mitesh Patel and Atit Sheth) turned out to be decisive. Baroda obviously played better cricket than us overall. I just hope it’s a learning lesson for our spinners. I am confident we will continue to improve as a team,” said Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane.

Baroda’s victory is a testament to their resilience and determination. They have shown that they can compete with the best in Indian domestic cricket and will be a force to reckon with in the upcoming season.

Nikin Jose's Heroics Deny Madhya Pradesh First-Innings Lead in Ranji Trophy Opener

Nikin Jose’s Heroics Deny Madhya Pradesh First-Innings Lead in Ranji Trophy Opener

Nikin Jose’s valiant 99 (216b, 8×4, 6×6) denied Madhya Pradesh the bragging rights over Karnataka as their 2024-25 Ranji Trophy Elite Group-C opener petered out to a draw at the Holkar Stadium.

The hosts, resuming on 425 for eight, set themselves a minimum of 98 overs to bowl Karnataka out and secure three points. For the visitors, gaining the lead was a distant dream, but it was an ideal opportunity to showcase their resilience and set the tone for the season ahead.

Nikin and Shreyas Gopal (60 n.o., 110b, 7×4, 1×6) rose to the challenge, rescuing Karnataka from a precarious 72 for four with a 127-run partnership. Nikin fell agonizingly short of a well-deserved century, trapped leg-before by left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya minutes before tea.

However, the 24-year-old, who had endured a disappointing 2023-24 campaign, had already made a significant impact on both his team and himself. At 206 for five, bad light and a slight drizzle officially ended proceedings, giving both sides a point each.

Nikin, who opened the innings, weathered the early onslaught of off-spinner Saransh Jain and Kartikeya, who bowled 32 of the 37 overs in the morning session as the new cherry gripped, turned, and bounced. Mayank Agarwal and Manish Pandey were both caught by close-in fielders off Kartikeya, while Devdutt Padikkal paid the price for playing back to Saransh’s delivery that slid and thudded into the pads.

Debutant R. Smaran concentrated hard (17, 51b, 1×4, 1×6), but had his off-stump rearranged by Saransh while trying to guard against the one that would hold its line. From there on, Nikin and Shreyas dug in. After safely negotiating until lunch, the duo scored briskly, collecting 46 runs from the next 10 overs. Nikin, after impressing with his cut shots early, slapped Saransh for a four and six down the ground. The half-century was had by flicking Avesh Khan to the mid-wicket fence.

Shreyas, who was reprieved by Rajat Patidar at backward short-leg when on six, played the ideal foil, nudging, driving, and sweeping his way to his 15th First Class fifty. Nikin moved into the 90s with towering back-to-back maximums off Saransh. Kartikeya spared his spin partner of further misery, but it came a tad too late.

Rain and Light Mar Day Three of Ranji Trophy Opener in Indore

Rain and Light Mar Day Three of Ranji Trophy Opener in Indore

Indore’s Holkar Stadium witnessed a frustrating day three of the Ranji Trophy Elite Group C opener between Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka as inclement weather and poor light conditions halted play prematurely.

After the opening day was washed out without a ball being bowled, Sunday’s proceedings began under clear skies and sunshine. However, only 57 overs could be completed before light worsened, forcing an early tea break. Two rounds of rain subsequently brought an end to the day’s play.

At stumps, Madhya Pradesh had reached 425 for eight in their first innings, thanks to a solid batting performance led by skipper Shubham Sharma. Sharma, who had retired hurt on day one, returned to notch up his ninth First-Class century, scoring an unbeaten 143 off 243 deliveries.

The 30-year-old exhibited a textbook approach to batting, playing with patience and precision. He defended resolutely, played close to his body, and always timed the ball well.

Karnataka’s bowlers, led by speedster V. Vyshak, started strongly. Vyshak dismissed Venkatesh Iyer in the second over of the day, while Harpreet Singh Bhatia was castled by V. Koushik for 91.

However, Shubham and Saransh Jain (51 off 128 balls) steadied the Madhya Pradesh innings, putting on a 131-run partnership for the seventh wicket. This partnership ensured that Karnataka would likely only earn a single point from the match.

Karnataka’s absence of lead pacer Prasidh Krishna was keenly felt. Krishna, who had returned from a quadriceps injury in the Duleep Trophy, walked off the field on day one after bowling just eight overs. His absence left a void in the Karnataka attack, which struggled to make consistent breakthroughs.

Bhargav Bhatt's 18th Five-Wicket Haul Secures Baroda's Rare Ranji Trophy Win Over Mumbai

Bhargav Bhatt’s 18th Five-Wicket Haul Secures Baroda’s Rare Ranji Trophy Win Over Mumbai

Bhargav Bhatt’s exceptional bowling performance propelled Baroda to a rare Ranji Trophy victory over defending champions Mumbai on Monday. The left-arm spinner’s 18th five-wicket haul in First-Class cricket proved decisive as Baroda secured an 84-run triumph at the Vadodara International Cricket Academy.

Baroda had only defeated Mumbai four times in their 66 previous encounters, with their last win coming in 1998-99. History repeated itself as Bhatt’s 6/55 dismantled Mumbai’s batting lineup.

At the start of the final day, Mumbai needed 220 runs with eight wickets in hand to chase down a target of 262. However, the deteriorating pitch made their task challenging. Captain Ajinkya Rahane’s early dismissal by Bhatt set the tone for Mumbai’s collapse.

Bhatt continued to torment the Mumbai batters, trapping opener Ayush Mhatre and then removing Shreyas Iyer, who had attempted to counterattack. The Mumbai allrounder trio of Shams Mulani, Shardul Thakur, and Tanush Kotian fell without resistance, leaving only Siddhesh Lad to offer any resistance.

Lad, returning to the Mumbai team after four and a half years, scored a solid fifty. However, Bhatt’s relentless bowling proved too much for him, as he accepted a return catch to end the match.

Baroda’s victory was a testament to Bhatt’s exceptional bowling skills. The 26-year-old spinner has now taken 10 wickets in a match against Mumbai for the second consecutive time.

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