In a spectacular display of cricket prowess, Mumbai took a firm grip on the Ranji Trophy 2024 final against Vidarbha at the Wankhede Stadium. The focus shifted from the first letter ‘M’ to the magnificent performance by Mumbai’s bowlers, led by Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian, and the resilient batting of Musheer Khan and skipper Ajinkya Rahane.
Bowlers Seal the Fate
Mumbai’s bowlers showcased their mettle on Day 2, bowling Vidarbha out for a mere 105 after posting 224 in their first innings. Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian starred with the ball, picking up crucial wickets, while the retiring Dhawal Kulkarni made a significant contribution. Vidarbha struggled to find stability, with Mulani’s arm ball and Kotian’s precise deliveries wreaking havoc.
Musheer and Rahane’s Brilliance
The highlight of Mumbai’s dominance came through Musheer Khan and skipper Ajinkya Rahane’s unbeaten half-centuries. After Vidarbha’s first-innings collapse, Musheer (51* off 135) and Rahane (58* off 109) showcased resilience, forming an unbroken partnership of 107*. Musheer’s defiant knock included three fours, while Rahane, who found much-needed form, struck four fours and a six.
Key Moments in the Clash
Day 2 witnessed a series of crucial moments. Dhawal Kulkarni struck early, removing Atharva Taide, setting the tone for Vidarbha’s struggles. Aditya Thakare and Yash Rathod showed resistance, but Mumbai’s bowlers persisted. Shams Mulani’s arm ball trapped Thakare lbw, and Vidarbha skipper Akshay Wadkar fell to Mulani’s spin. The bat-pad catch by Mulani dismissed Harsh Dubey, leaving Vidarbha reeling at 87/7.
Mumbai’s First-Innings Lead
Tanush Kotian’s exceptional bowling performance dismantled Vidarbha further, securing a substantial first-innings lead of 119 runs for Mumbai. Yash Thakur and Umesh Yadav fell victim to Kotian’s skillful deliveries, leaving Mumbai in a commanding position.
Resolute Second Innings
Mumbai faced early setbacks in their second innings, losing both openers cheaply to Yash Thakur and Harsh Dubey. However, Musheer and Rahane’s determined partnership solidified Mumbai’s position, ending the day at 141/2 with a significant lead of 260 runs. Rahane, with only one half-century in the tournament leading up to the final, made a timely comeback with his impressive innings.
In the thrilling encounter at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai’s all-round dominance positions them as the frontrunners in the Ranji Trophy 2024 final. As the teams gear up for the crucial moments ahead, the spotlight remains on Mumbai’s formidable performance led by their bowlers and the resurgence of Rahane’s captaincy and batting form.
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