Synopsis
On February 11, Vidarbha dominated Tamil Nadu by 198 runs in the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals, securing their place in the semifinals. With a stellar performance from Nachiket Bhute and Yash Rathod, Vidarbha continued their winning streak as they prepared to face Mumbai next.Key Takeaways
- Vidarbha advances to Ranji Trophy semifinals.
- Defeated Tamil Nadu by 198 runs.
- Nachiket Bhute starred with 3 wickets.
- Yash Rathod scored a crucial century.
- Next match against Mumbai.
Nagpur, Feb 11 (NationPress) Former champions Vidarbha showcased an impressive performance to secure their place in the Ranji Trophy semifinals, defeating Tamil Nadu by 198 runs on the fourth day of their quarterfinal match on Tuesday. Led by Nachiket Bhute’s three-wicket haul and Yash Rathod’s determined century, last season’s runners-up maintained their winning streak with a solid victory on home ground.
Facing a challenging target of 401 runs, Tamil Nadu’s formidable batting lineup fell apart against Vidarbha’s unyielding bowling attack. Fast bowler Nachiket Bhute was the standout performer early, achieving figures of 3-19 in 10 overs, taking down Narayan Jagadeesan (18), Vijay Shankar (5), and Boopathi Kumar (0) in rapid succession.
By the end of the penultimate day, Tamil Nadu found themselves struggling at 45/5, with right-arm pacer Aditya Thakare striking first by dismissing Mohammed Ali (10). Despite an effort from Pradosh Ranjan Paul (53 off 95 balls) and Sonu Yadav (57 off 84 balls) to mount a comeback, it was ultimately insufficient.
Left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey (3-40) cleaned up the lower order, concluding Tamil Nadu’s innings at 202 in 61.1 overs, thus securing Vidarbha’s resounding victory.
Entering Day 4 with a 297-run advantage, Vidarbha ensured no chance for a Tamil Nadu fightback by adding 103 runs to their overnight score before being all out for 272 in 92.3 overs.
The foundation of their innings was laid by Yash Rathod’s steady 112 off 213 balls, marking his fifth First-Class century. Starting on 55 overnight, the middle-order batsman gained confidence and formed a vital 120-run partnership with Harsh Dubey (64), further reinforcing Vidarbha’s dominance.
When Tamil Nadu took to the field for their second innings, the target of 400 runs became daunting, and Vidarbha’s bowlers ensured they never approached it.
Next, Vidarbha will face Mumbai, the 42-time champions, in the semifinals.
Brief scores:
Vidarbha 353 & 272 beat Tamil Nadu 225 & 202 in 61.1 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 53, Sonu Yadav 57; Nachiket Bhute 3/19, Harsh Dubey 3/40) by 198 runs.
