Did Unadkat's Four Wickets Propel Saurashtra to a 31-Run Lead Over Chandigarh?
Synopsis
In an exciting opening day of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, Jaydev Unadkat starred for Saurashtra with four wickets, helping his team gain a narrow lead over Chandigarh. The day was marked by outstanding individual performances and a special celebration for Dharmendrasinh Jadeja on his milestone appearance.
Key Takeaways
Jaydev Unadkat dominated the bowling attack with four wickets.
Saurashtra gained a crucial 31-run lead against Chandigarh .
Harvik Desai scored an impressive unbeaten 80 runs.
Milestone celebration for Dharmendrasinh Jadeja marked the day.
Other matches showcased competitive play in the Ranji Trophy .
Chandigarh, Jan 29 (NationPress) Veteran left-arm bowler Jaydev Unadkat took four wickets as Saurashtra dismissed Chandigarh for 136 runs on the first day of their Elite Group B clash in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26. This match took place at the Cricket Stadium, Sector 16, in Chandigarh on Thursday.
Choosing to field first after winning the toss, Saurashtra bowled out Chandigarh in just 42.1 overs. Unadkat achieved figures of 4 for 44, while Chirag Jani and Chetan Sakariya took two wickets each, with Prerak Mankad securing one wicket.
For Chandigarh, Jagjit Singh Sandhu and Arjit Singh each contributed 29 runs, while Arjun Azad added 20. In their response, Saurashtra finished the day on 167 for 1 after 38 overs. Harvik Desai remained not out with 80 runs off 117 balls, which included nine boundaries and a six, while Jay Gohil was also not out on 61 runs from 59 balls.
The day also marked a special occasion as Saurashtra spinner Dharmendrasinh Jadeja was honored for his 100th first-class appearance. Skipper Unadkat, along with team manager Mohansinh Jadeja and coach Niraj Odedara, presented him with a memento in front of both teams.
BCCI Apex Council member Jaydev Shah remarked, "Dharmendra is an exceptional cricketer with remarkable spin bowling capabilities. He has significantly contributed to the sport and has brought countless accolades to his teams."
Meanwhile, at Holkar Stadium in Indore, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra faced off in a gripping match, with a total of 12 wickets falling on the opening day. MP was all out for 187, as Rajvardhan Hangargekar claimed five wickets. By stumps, MP had reduced Maharashtra to 52 for 2, losing both Prithvi Shaw and Arshin Kulkarni.
In the IS Bindra Stadium at Mohali, Punjab rebounded from a precarious 168 for 6 to close at 303 for 9 against Karnataka on a spinning track. Emanjot Chahal remained not out on 77, while Shreyas Gopal and Vidyadhar Patil each took three wickets for Karnataka, who are in dire need of a win to remain in knockout contention.
In Porvorim, Goa ended the day at 279 for 8 against Kerala. Goa's total was bolstered by Suyash Prabhudessai’s 86 and Yash Kasvankar’s 50, along with a quick-fire 36 from Arjun Tendulkar. Ankit Sharma was the standout bowler for Kerala, taking 5 for 88, supported by Nedumankuzhy Basil’s 2 for 55 and Sachin Baby’s 1 for 36.
Point of View
I believe this match showcases not only the talent of veteran players like Jaydev Unadkat but also highlights the ongoing excitement of the Ranji Trophy. The performances we witnessed today set the stage for an engaging tournament ahead, and it’s essential for fans to stay informed and engaged with these developments.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who took four wickets for Saurashtra?
Veteran left-arm pacer Jaydev Unadkat claimed four wickets.
What was Chandigarh's score on the opening day?
Chandigarh was bowled out for 136 runs.
What was Saurashtra's lead at the end of the day?
Saurashtra ended the day with a 31-run lead.
Who was honored for reaching 100 first-class appearances?
Dharmendrasinh Jadeja was honored for his 100th first-class appearance.
What other matches took place on this day?
Matches between Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra , and Punjab against Karnataka also occurred.
