Nagpur, March 2: Vidarbha moved closer to clinching their third Ranji Trophy title, extending their lead to 351 runs against Kerala by lunch on the final day at Nagpur on Sunday. Having secured previous titles in the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons, Vidarbha stands poised to add another chapter to their cricketing success.
Karun Nair was instrumental in placing Vidarbha in a commanding position, crafting an outstanding knock of 135 runs in their second innings. Vidarbha reached 314 for 7 in 124 overs, choosing not to declare or set an explicit target for their opponents in the decisive final session.
Nair, who started the day unbeaten at 132, managed to add only three more runs before being stumped off left-arm spinner Aditya Sarwate. His resilient innings spanned 295 deliveries, including 10 boundaries and two powerful sixes. The century marked Nair's ninth across various formats in the ongoing domestic cricket season, highlighting his impressive form.
Captain Akshay Wadkar offered valuable support with a patient innings of 25 off 108 balls, including two fours, before falling to Sarwate as well, further solidifying Vidarbha's control of the game.
At lunch, Akshay Karnewar (24 not out) and Darshan Nalkande (8 not out) were holding the crease, keeping Kerala bowlers at bay.
Earlier, Vidarbha had gained a crucial first-innings advantage of 37 runs after dismissing Kerala for 342. As per the Ranji Trophy rules, Vidarbha will clinch the title based on this lead if the match ends in a draw, placing them in a dominant position entering the final sessions of the match.
Sarwate remained the standout bowler for Kerala, taking 3 wickets for 75 runs in a marathon 39 overs.
Brief Scores:
- Vidarbha: 379 & 314/7 (Karun Nair 135; Aditya Sarwate 3/75)
- Kerala: 342
Vidarbha lead by 351 runs.
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