Vidarbha clinched their third Ranji Trophy title after securing a thrilling first-innings lead against Kerala and grinding them down for nearly five sessions in Nagpur. In front of 3,000 home fans, Akshay Wadkar’s team lifted the trophy, erasing the disappointment of the 2023-24 season.
Kerala, playing their first final, had moments to reflect on. Sachin Baby’s dismissal on 98 with a lead in sight, Akshay Chandran’s missed catch of Karun Nair, and Danish Malewar’s DRS reprieve were all turning points. Despite these setbacks, Kerala gained valuable experience from their remarkable journey.
The final day started with hope for Kerala. Nair fell early after adding just three runs to his overnight 132, and Harsh Dubey was trapped lbw by Eden Apple Tom. Wadkar was then bowled by a low shooter from Sarwate, who suddenly had three wickets, sparking Kerala’s belief.
However, Akshay Karnewar’s gritty 30 took time out of the game, frustrating Kerala. Darshan Nalkande’s powerful half-century sealed the match as both teams agreed to a draw at 2:20 pm, confirming Vidarbha as champions.
Vidarbha’s triumph was a collective effort. Nair’s fourth hundred of the season and Malewar’s vital fifty anchored the batting. Yash Rathod ended as the season’s top run-scorer, while Dubey claimed the record for most wickets. Parth Rekhade’s semi-final burst against Mumbai and Dhruv Shorey’s adaptability played key roles. Captain Wadkar, who endured last year’s heartbreak, finally stood victorious, lifting the trophy in classic Vidarbha fashion.
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