Vidarbha Strongly Positioned in Ranji Trophy Semi-Final
Vidarbha finds itself in a commanding position on the first day of the Ranji Trophy semi-final against defending champions Mumbai, setting a firm foundation with a score of 308 for 5. Half-centuries from Dhruv Shorey (74) and Danish Malewar (79) laid the groundwork, despite missed opportunities and wicket-taking performances from Shams Mulani (2-44) and Shivam Dube (2-35). At stumps, Yash Rathod, Vidarbha’s highest run-getter this season, remained unbeaten on 47, alongside captain Akshay Wadkar, who was 13 not out. The pair batted through the final hour, ensuring Vidarbha’s innings ended in a strong position.
Early Struggles and Strong Partnerships
The day began with Vidarbha electing to bat on a surface that, unlike the old VCA Stadium, remained true and friendly for both batsmen and bowlers. The openers, Akshay Wakhare and Atharva Taide, managed to see off the initial spell from Mumbai’s Shardul Thakur and Mohit Avasthi. However, Taide’s innings was short-lived, dismissed early by Royston Dias with a lifter that he mishandled. Shorey, however, quickly found his rhythm, anchoring the innings with a series of cover drives and aggressive cuts. His partnership with Parth Rekhade, playing his second first-class game, added 54 runs before Rekhade was dismissed by Dube.
Shorey and Malewar’s Dominant Stint
Shorey and Malewar then formed a crucial partnership, adding 51 runs before Shorey was dismissed by Mulani for 74, edging a deflection to Ajinkya Rahane at slip. Malewar, coming in at number three, continued to build the innings with Karun Nair, who had been in exceptional form in the quarter-final against Tamil Nadu. Nair’s approach was methodical, neutralizing the spin threat by sweeping and reverse sweeping Tanush Kotian. Malewar, on the other hand, was a picture of elegance, showcasing excellent judgment of length and line, particularly against the fast bowlers. He brought up his fifth first-class half-century, setting the stage for a potentially big first innings total.
Setbacks and Resilience
Despite their solid foundation, Vidarbha suffered a setback in the final session. Nair, who had looked well set, fell for 45 when he wafted at a seemingly harmless delivery from Dube, giving the all-rounder his second wicket. Soon after, Malewar, who was on the brink of his first first-class century, fell to a Mulani delivery, edging it to the wicketkeeper. These quick wickets provided Mumbai with a glimmer of hope, but Vidarbha’s resilience was evident as Yash Rathod and Akshay Wadkar steadied the ship. Their unbroken partnership of 47 runs not only saw off the last hour of play but also ensured Vidarbha’s first innings total remained competitive.
Looking Ahead
With Harsh Dubey, a bowling all-rounder who made twin half-centuries in the quarter-final, yet to come to the crease, Vidarbha is optimistic about posting a big first innings total. This is a critical aspect, especially given their experience in the previous year’s final, where failing to build a substantial total ultimately cost them the match. The pitch conditions, remaining true and playing to the batsmen’s advantage, further emphasize the importance of capitalizing on the opportunities in hand.
Conclusion
The first day of the Ranji Trophy semi-final at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur was a tale of Vidarbha’s resilience and determination. Despite a few setbacks, their ability to rebuild and maintain a strong position is commendable. With a well-set Yash Rathod and the upcoming innings of Harsh Dubey, Vidarbha is well poised to challenge Mumbai and potentially secure a significant first innings lead. The stage is set for an engaging contest, with both sides aiming to capitalize on every opportunity to advance to the final.
