Ranji Trophy: Yash Rathod’s Brilliance Positions Vidarbha Near Final
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Synopsis
Yash Rathod’s remarkable 151 runs have placed Vidarbha in a strong position against Mumbai, who must chase an unprecedented 406 runs to secure a place in the Ranji Trophy final. The match is set for a thrilling conclusion as Mumbai faces a challenging chase amidst deteriorating pitch conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Yash Rathod's 151 runs lead Vidarbha's charge.
- Vidarbha sets a challenging target of 406 runs.
- Mumbai struggles at 83 for 3 at stumps.
- Ajinkya Rahane's dismissal impacts Mumbai's chances.
- Spin bowlers play a crucial role on the deteriorating pitch.
Nagpur, Feb 20 (NationPress) Yash Rathod’s extraordinary 151, marking his fifth century this season, has thrust Vidarbha into a powerful position, challenging Mumbai with a formidable target of 406 runs for a spot in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy final.
As the match enters its concluding day in Nagpur, Mumbai’s ambition to create history appears dim, as the famed 41-time champions fell to 83 for 3 at stumps. The dismissal of skipper Ajinkya Rahane further weakened their prospects, leaving them with the daunting task of achieving the highest successful chase in Ranji Trophy history.
The chase began poorly for Mumbai as their top order faltered against Vidarbha’s left-arm spinners. Harsh Dubey, the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, made quick work of Ayush Mhatre and Siddhesh Lad, while Parth Rekhade continued his dominance over Rahane, sending him back with a low delivery.
Additionally, Mumbai faced uncertainty regarding Suryakumar Yadav’s participation, as he remained off the field during Vidarbha’s second innings. This left Shivam Dube to step in at No. 5 alongside first innings centurion Akash Anand, both now tasked with reviving Mumbai’s chances.
Earlier, Rathod exhibited remarkable resilience, contributing significantly to a 158-run partnership with Akshay Wadkar, pulling Vidarbha from a precarious 56 for 4 to a total that imposed immense pressure on Mumbai. Wadkar’s stout 52 off 202 balls was concluded just before lunch when he was bowled by Shams Mulani, who finished with excellent figures of 6 for 85 from 44 overs.
As the pitch showed signs of wear, Mumbai’s spinners started to find their rhythm, claiming quick wickets of Harsh Dubey and Darshan Nalkande. Nonetheless, Rathod stood firm, crafting his innings meticulously before accelerating towards the end. Supported by Rekhade, batting at No. 9 after starting as a top-order player, Rathod crossed the 150-mark before becoming the final wicket, ensuring Vidarbha’s lead surpassed 400.
With the pitch deteriorating and spin becoming increasingly influential, Mumbai faces a monumental challenge. Vidarbha’s bowlers, spearheaded by Dubey and Rekhade, exploited the rough areas effectively, setting the stage for an exhilarating final day. Akash Anand, batting on 27, and Shivam Dube, on 12, must deliver extraordinary performances if Mumbai hopes to accomplish the unprecedented feat of chasing down 406.
As Mumbai strives to write their names into the record books, Vidarbha is just seven wickets away from securing their third Ranji Trophy final.
Brief scores: Vidarbha 383 & 292/10 in 110.1 overs (Yash Rathod 151, Parth Rekhade 20; Shams Mulani 6-83, Tanush Kotian 3-81) lead Mumbai 83/3 in 31 overs (Akash Anand 27 not out, Shivam Dube 12 not out; Harsh Dubey 2-26) by 323 runs.
