Nagpur, March 1: Hosts Vidarbha strengthened their grip on the Ranji Trophy final, extending their overall lead to 127 runs at lunch on day four against Kerala. At the break, Vidarbha stood at 90 for 2 in their second innings.
Vidarbha began the day with a significant first-innings lead of 37 runs but faced early setbacks, losing both openers within the first 30 minutes of play. Veteran spinner Jalaj Saxena (1/36) struck immediately, dismissing opener Parth Rekhade (1) with his very first delivery of the day. Kerala's in-form medium pacer MD Nidheesh (1/17) quickly added to Vidarbha's early troubles by removing the experienced Dhruv Shorey (5) in the subsequent over.
With Vidarbha struggling at 7 for 2, the reliable duo of Danish Malewar (38 not out) and seasoned batter Karun Nair (42 not out) took charge. Displaying determination and composure, they built a crucial unbroken 83-run partnership, guiding their side safely to lunch without further losses.
Kerala, participating in their first-ever Ranji Trophy final, now find themselves under immense pressure. Having conceded a crucial first-innings deficit, Kerala's hopes of clinching their maiden Ranji title hinge upon quick wickets in the afternoon session.
Brief Scores:
- Vidarbha: 379 & 90/2 in 34 overs (Karun Nair 42*, Danish Malewar 38*; MD Nidheesh 1/17, Jalaj Saxena 1/36).
- Kerala: 342 in 125 overs (Sachin Baby 98; Aditya Sarwate 79; Darshan Nalkande 3/52, Harsh Dubey 3/88, Parth Rekhade 3/65).
