Did Dubey's 6-37 Lead Vidarbha to Victory Over UP in Ranji Trophy?
Synopsis
In an exhilarating match, Vidarbha's captain, Harsh Dubey, showcased his bowling prowess with a stunning 6-37. This performance puts Vidarbha in a strong position to secure a spot in the knockouts of the Ranji Trophy. Will they capitalize on this momentum?
Key Takeaways
Harsh Dubey's Uttar Pradesh struggled despite a resilient partnership.
Baroda's recovery showcases their batting depth.
Nagaland's Chetan Bist led a remarkable fightback.
Odisha remains competitive against Jharkhand with solid contributions.
Nagpur, Jan 29 (NationPress) The captain of Vidarbha, Harsh Dubey, delivered an outstanding performance by taking 6 wickets for 37 runs in 19.5 overs, bowling out Uttar Pradesh for 237 runs in 68.5 overs during the crucial opening day of their must-win Elite Group A match in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur on Thursday.
As the stumps were called, Vidarbha had scored 33 runs for the loss of one wicket in 12 overs, putting themselves in a favorable position in a match they needed to win outright to qualify for the knockouts. Uttar Pradesh, after being put to bat first, found themselves struggling at 109/6 before Dhruv Jurel (96) and Shivam Mavi (47) forged a critical partnership, adding 92 runs for the seventh wicket to help UP surpass the 200-run mark.
Meanwhile, at the Salem Cricket Foundation Ground in Salem, Sukirt Pandey scored an unbeaten 73 and Ninad Rathva contributed 66 as Baroda reached 247/5 against Tamil Nadu. After opting to bat first, Baroda faced early trouble, slipping to 72/4 due to off-spinner J. Hemchudeshan's three wickets in his first four overs, alongside one wicket from captain R. Sai Kishore.
However, Rathva and Pandey stabilized the innings as the pitching conditions improved, accumulating essential runs with calculated strokeplay. Pandey and skipper Atit Sheth (45 not out) formed an unbroken 90-run partnership for the sixth wicket, ensuring Baroda ended the day in a commanding position after Tamil Nadu’s early breakthroughs.
Over at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium in Sovima, Chetan Bist played a stellar innings, remaining unbeaten on 160 runs as Nagaland reached 322/6 in 90 overs against Andhra. Nagaland found themselves in a precarious position at 59/4, but Bist spearheaded a remarkable recovery, partnering with Dega Nischal to add 167 runs for the fifth wicket, with Nischal contributing 74 runs from 188 balls.
Throughout his innings, the wicketkeeper-batter struck 23 fours and a six in his 217-ball stay, asserting dominance and keeping Nagaland in control. Although Nischal was dismissed towards the end of the day and Imliwati Lemtur fell cheaply, Bist continued to find support from Nagaho Chishi, who remained not out on 37.
At Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha concluded day one at 242/6 in 92 overs against Jharkhand, with Swastik Samal (79) and Govinda Podder (64) both scoring half-centuries. Jharkhand, the only team that can obstruct Vidarbha's path to the knockouts, faced resolute resistance from Odisha's determined batsmen.
Point of View
This match showcases the intensity and competitive spirit of the Ranji Trophy. Vidarbha's strong position, aided by Harsh Dubey's remarkable bowling performance, reflects the urgency and determination required to succeed in such critical matches. As the tournament progresses, every game holds significant implications for qualification and team morale, making it a captivating narrative for cricket fans across the nation.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Harsh Dubey's bowling figure in the match?
Harsh Dubey claimed 6 wickets for 37 runs in his 19.5 overs.
How many runs did Uttar Pradesh score?
Uttar Pradesh was bowled out for 237 runs .
What is the significance of this match for Vidarbha?
This match is crucial as Vidarbha needs to win outright to qualify for the knockouts in the Ranji Trophy .
Who were the standout players for UP?
Dhruv Jurel scored 96 runs and Shivam Mavi contributed 47 runs .
What was the situation of Baroda's innings?
Baroda reached 247/5 against Tamil Nadu, with Sukirt Pandey and Ninad Rathva playing key roles.
