Did Patidar and Rathod Put Central Zone in Command of the Duleep Trophy Final?
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Synopsis
Central Zone has taken a commanding lead in the Duleep Trophy final, with stunning centuries from Rajat Patidar and Yash Rathod. Their remarkable performances have shifted the momentum, putting South Zone on the back foot. As the match unfolds, will Central maintain their dominance?
Key Takeaways
- Rajat Patidar scored 101 runs, showcasing his skill.
- Yash Rathod remained unbeaten at 137, demonstrating control.
- Central Zone leads South Zone by 235 runs, asserting dominance.
- 167-run partnership between Patidar and Rathod turned the match.
- South Zone struggled with the bowling conditions.
Bengaluru, Sep 12 (NationPress) The 2025-26 Duleep Trophy final has shifted decisively in favor of Central Zone, as Rajat Patidar and Yash Rathod delivered exceptional centuries on the second day at the Centre of Excellence. Patidar scored a stylish 101 runs off 115 balls while Rathod remained unbeaten at 137, leading Central to a formidable total of 384 for 5 by the end of the day, establishing a 235-run lead over South Zone.
The day commenced with Central Zone needing to overcome a 99-run deficit on a pitch that provided some movement amidst overcast conditions. South Zone’s Vasuki Koushik took advantage of the situation, sending captain Akshay Wadkar packing with a sharp inswinger that crashed into the off stump.
Gurjapneet Singh kept the pressure mounting with his lively pace and seam movement, eventually dismissing Shubham Sharma and later Danish Malewar, who scored a laborious 53 off 120 deliveries.
At 93 for 3 in the 33rd over, South Zone had the upper hand.
However, the entry of Patidar altered the game's dynamics. The Central captain quickly found his rhythm, driving Koushik with precision and rotating the strike effectively with Rathod. He reached his half-century off 72 balls, combining patience with assertiveness.
Luck favored him when he was given out lbw to Ankit Sharma at 44, but replays confirmed a no-ball. Seizing this opportunity, Patidar surged to his 15th first-class hundred with a mix of elegant sweeps, drives, and a six off Gurjapneet. His partnership with Rathod, which yielded 167 runs, not only put Central in the lead but also in a dominating position.
On the other end, Rathod initially played a cautious innings but soon began to unleash a variety of shots. He drove fluently and capitalized on loose deliveries, reaching his seventh first-class century after tea, celebrating with joy as he removed his helmet and gloves. Rathod finished the day not out at 137, demonstrating maturity and control.
Although Gurjapneet struck again to dismiss Patidar for 101 and Nidheesh took Upendra Yadav down the leg side, the momentum was firmly with Central Zone. Rathod found a reliable partner in Saransh Jain, fresh off a semi-final half-century, and the duo added 108 runs in the final session off just 32 overs.
South Zone took the second new ball late in the 101st over, but by that time the pitch had eased, offering little assistance. As the players exited the field, Central Zone stood at 384 for 5, with Rathod and Jain not out, looking poised to strengthen their grip on the final.
Brief scores: South Zone 149 trails Central Zone 384/5 in 104 overs (Yash Rathod 137 not out, Rajat Patidar 101; Gurjapneet Singh 3/74) by 235 runs.
Point of View
Central Zone's strong performance led by Patidar and Rathod showcases their skill and determination. Their ability to adapt to the conditions and capitalize on opportunities highlights the essence of competitive cricket. South Zone will need to regroup and strategize effectively to turn the tide in their favor.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the standout players in the Duleep Trophy final?
Rajat Patidar and Yash Rathod have been the standout players, both scoring centuries that have put Central Zone in a commanding position.
What is the current score of the Duleep Trophy final?
As of now, Central Zone has scored 384 for 5, leading South Zone by 235 runs.
Where is the Duleep Trophy final being held?
The final is taking place at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
How did South Zone perform on day two?
South Zone began well but struggled to maintain momentum as Central Zone's batsmen found their form.
What impact did the weather have on the match?
Overcast conditions provided movement for bowlers, impacting South Zone's early performance.
