How Did Saransh and Kartikeya Dominate South Zone?
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Synopsis
In a gripping start to the Duleep Trophy final, Saransh Jain and Kumar Kartikeya showcased their exceptional spin bowling skills, leading Central Zone to a robust position. As they dismantled South Zone, questions arise about their dominance. Dive into the match highlights and discover how the day unfolded, setting the stage for an exciting final.
Key Takeaways
- Saransh Jain achieved his second consecutive five-wicket haul.
- Kumar Kartikeya played a crucial role in dismantling the South Zone batting lineup.
- Central Zone ended the day in a dominant position.
- South Zone struggled with a batting collapse after a cautious start.
- The match remains open with further developments expected in the upcoming days.
Bengaluru, Sep 11 (NationPress) Saransh Jain and Kumar Kartikeya delivered a remarkable exhibition of spin bowling, placing Central Zone in a commanding position during the opening day of the 2025/26 Duleep Trophy final at the BCCI CoE Ground 1 on Thursday.
On a pitch offering substantial grip and bounce, Jain secured his second consecutive five-wicket haul with figures of 5-49, while Kartikeya contributed with 4-53, helping to bowl out South Zone for 149 runs in 63 overs.
In response, Central Zone's openers, Danish Malewar and Akshay Wadkar, handled the new ball with poise, reaching 50/0 in 19 overs before bad light halted play, leaving the Rajat Patidar-led side trailing by 99 runs.
After being asked to bat first, South Zone started cautiously, with Mohit Kale and Tanmay Agarwal accumulating 24 runs in 15 overs. However, the introduction of Kartikeya in the 16th over sparked a collapse, as he dismissed Kale and Smaran Ravichandran.
The downfall continued with Tanmay being run out for 31 following a mix-up with Ricky Bhui, while Kartikeya bowled out captain Mohammed Azharuddeen, leaving South Zone in a precarious position at 64/4 by lunch.
Post-lunch, Jain joined the wicket-taking spree by trapping Bhui lbw before quickly dismissing C Andre Siddarth and Salman Nizar. Kartikeya secured his fourth wicket by trapping Gurjapneet Singh lbw, while Jain concluded the innings by bowling out Ankit Sharma.
South Zone opened with Ankit’s spin and Gurjapneet’s left-arm pace, but Wadkar and Malewar responded effectively, with the latter hitting three boundaries in one over against the fast bowler.
To worsen South Zone’s plight, Ankit’s lbw appeal against Wadkar was denied, with replays indicating the ball was missing leg stump. Vasuki Koushik found late movement, yet Wadkar and Malewar stood firm, ensuring Central Zone ended the day strongly.
Brief Scores: South Zone 149 in 63 overs (Tanmay Agarwal 31, Salman Nizar 24, Saransh Jain 5-49, Kumar Kartikeya Singh 4-53) trail Central Zone 50/0 in 19 overs (Danish Malewar 28 not out, Akshay Wadkar 20 not out) by 99 runs
Point of View
Today’s match reflects the rising talent in Indian cricket, particularly in spin bowling. Jain and Kartikeya's performance is a testament to their hard work and determination. Central Zone's strong start puts them in a favorable position, but the match remains open with plenty of cricket to be played. It's important to stay tuned as the dynamics could shift rapidly.
NationPress
14/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the standout players in the Duleep Trophy final?
Saransh Jain and Kumar Kartikeya stood out with their exceptional spin bowling performances, taking five and four wickets respectively.
What was the score after the first day of the Duleep Trophy final?
After the first day, South Zone scored 149 runs, while Central Zone reached 50 runs without losing a wicket.
Where was the Duleep Trophy final held?
The Duleep Trophy final took place at the BCCI CoE Ground 1 in Bengaluru.
