Ranji Trophy SF: Lone-standing Karun Nair provides Vidarbha hope on opening day against Madhya Pradesh

Karun Nair Ranji Trophy 2024. (Photo Source: X/Jio Cinema)

In the ongoing clash at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground, Nagpur, Vidarbha faced an uphill battle in the first semifinal of the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 against Madhya Pradesh. Opting to bat first, Vidarbha struggled to make a mark, posting a modest 170 on the scoreboard.

Opening duo Atharva Taide (39) and Dhruv Shorey (13) managed only 32 for the first wicket before Shorey made the long walk back. Despite other batters departing one after the other at one end, it was Karun Nair’s 63 that provided some hope for the hosts on the opening day. Yash Rathod and Aditya Sarwate also scored 17 and 12 runs, respectively, thereby failing to convert their starts into substantial contributions.

MP’s bowlers demonstrated exceptional consistency, with ace pacer Avesh Khan leading the attack, claiming four crucial wickets. Kulwant Khejroliya and Venkatesh Iyer chipped in with one wicket each, stifling Vidarbha’s batting line-up.

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Tamil Nadu get bundled out for modest total vs hosts Mumbai

Meanwhile, in the second semifinal clash between Mumbai and Tamil Nadu, the latter faced a daunting challenge as they were dismissed for a mere 146 runs in their first innings. A total of six batters failed to reach double digits, thanks to precise bowling by the Mumbai bowlers.

Vijay Shankar emerged as the top scorer with 44 runs, closely followed by Washington Sundar with 43. However, both were the only hope for the Tamilians on Day 1. Mumbaiker Tushar Deshpande starred with three important strikes, while Shardul Thakur, Musheer Khan, and Tanush Kotian contributed with scalped a couple each.

As the match progresses, it will indeed be fascinating to witness how the Tamil Nadu team stage a comeback and restrains the formidable Mumbai batting line-up. Mumbai’s strength has been further enhanced by the return of star Indian batter Shreyas Iyer, who was recently excluded from the BCCI annual contract list.

Also Read: Thrilled to have Shreyas Iyer in our team’ — Ajinkya Rahane ahead of Ranji Trophy semi-final clash